I mentioned briefly in my Blog of November 22, that I had repented of having been a “professional clergyman.” Some readers cheered and some challenged that statement. Perhaps I was too brief and general in dealing with a very delicate subject in the religious practices of the “Churches” in America. To those who felt threatened by what I wrote please allow me to respond to some questions raised.
First, regarding the questions on financial support, I did not say that “pastors and staff” should not be paid. There is scriptural evidence for the practice of faithful elders and servants of the ekklesia receiving financial support for their service to the flock of God.
Secondly, I would hasten to add that there is a vast difference between a faithful elder and a clergyman. The faithful elder appears in the scriptures to be one who is spiritually mature and able to serve as an undershepherd of his Master’s flock. He is not into shepherding for personal gain. He is not in competition with other shepherds. He comes from among the flock, not from an educational system designed to produce professionals that promulgate the system. He understands that he is accountable for his actions regarding God’s flock and does not see his service as a stepping stone to a larger flock with more income, greater benefits, a reputation as a great preacher, builder of churches or as an opportunity to become a Church/ Denominational Executive. His center is God, not self or man.
Thirdly, the clergy/laity class system seems to be a direct contradiction of the Kingdom message of Jesus in the gospels and the New Covenant. For those who may be interested I can give you the titles of some very well done books and treatises on the subject of the clergy by very scholarly men.
A brief request.
I invite you to go to www.flrev.org , click on the link to the BLOG, and post your comments. I will listen to your phone calls and read your emails when they are sent to me and attempt to respond as best as I can. However, I can’t record your conversations and cut and paste them on the site for the benefit of others. Please help.
DaveinFL