This day is, also, associated with the blast of a trumpet that signals the day has arrived and the culminating events of the age are upon them. Notice the following passages connecting the trumpet to the end of the age. Matthew 24:3,31 – …Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of…
According to Joel, the timing for the Spirit’s work is described as preceding “the day of the Lord” for a time of judgment and reward of the righteous. As we come to the fulfillment of this prediction, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that began in Jerusalem in chapter 2 occurred “before the great and…
The New Testament speaks of the “day of the Lord.” The following chart links that day to a time of judgment for the wicked and resurrection as a reward for the righteous. Matthew 7:22 – Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name…
We can be sure from the reading of the New Testament that the second coming is a first-century event. The sequence of events and specifics are admittedly open for debate. Any author reserves the right to change His mind and need not feel discouraged for expressing their thoughts along the way. This is only a…
Historically, the post-apostolic Christians adopted this pyramid rule into their lives by shifting toward the organizational patterns of their culture. Ignatius was the first figure instrumental toward this shift and toward the elevation of one elder (called “Bishop”) who had ultimate power like Jesus, while the others stood in the position of the apostles under…
The English word “ordain” is used is from another word found in Acts 14:23 and 2 Corinthians 8:19. The later use finds Luke being “chosen of the churches to travel with Paul and his companions.” His selection was no more an official position in an institution as is the shepherds or evangelists. Albert Barnes commenting…
It is the intention of this section to introduce that the emphasis of the text of scripture is on the oversight of souls (individuals) not the oversight of an organization as one would expect in a business corporation. Unfortunately, some translations use the word “ordained” which is used today in an ecclesiastical sense. In commenting…
Compare this authority to the authority of an apostle who spoke the oracles of God. He could give orders from God (1 Cor. 16:1-3). But, in matters of judgment, Paul had no commandment of the Lord and it became a matter for the people to decide. For example, Corinth was to decide who was…
Decisions of local churches are often thought to be in the hands of its leadership – some board or eldership. From our text in Ephesians 4, the leadership of first-century saints was placed in the hands of apostles, prophets, evangelists, and shepherds. The shepherds of the cities would extend their watchful eye to the entire…
(5) Problem with Elders in Local Churches All churches have a leading body. It may be a body of deacons or some other leading board who make business decisions for their church. Once again, these decision-making boards are necessary in a church organization. The fact that no such ruling boards are found in the Scriptures…