House Church Talk - pastors and elders

[Claire Bennett]

I know you are trying to get some to think outside of the box - the box of "this is the way we do things..."

The word "pastor" is mentioned only once in the NT, and it refers to those with pastoral gifts.

"Elders" also do not have a position, authority or power - they are the older and more mature and have responsibility.  Paul entreats to obey your leaders as they keep watch over your souls.  Most miss the second part of the sentence.  How many "leaders" keep watch over souls?  They keep watch over the bottom line, finances, head count, etc.

The Moses Model - The Calvary Chapel franchise claims the "Moses Model."  Two issues here.  Jesus never advocated the "Moses Model."  Also, those that claim to adhere to the "Moses Model," don't.  Moses was called and his calling was validated by signs and wonders.  His calling was for a specific time and place, and he didn't enter the promised land.


The terms "pastor" and "minister" have been co-opted.  These terms referred to lowly service.  Now they have become terms of honor and authority and control.  Biblical words, like elder, have been taken and infused with meaning from corporate America - the role of business leaders is to exploit and maximize human and other resources for the benefit of the owners.