Authority in the Church
Authority in the Church6
(The Head Covering) 06 - When Is It to Be Worn?
By Tom Chaplin99156:46Authority in the ChurchHead CoveringsHead Covering1CO 11:1Tom Chaplin addresses the complexities surrounding the topic of head coverings in his sermon, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of when and why they should be worn. He explores the biblical context, particularly 1 Corinthians 11, and discusses the significance of head coverings as a symbol of respect for God's chain of command. Chaplin argues that the head covering should not only be worn during prayer and prophesying but should be a general practice in a woman's life to reflect her position in God's order. He acknowledges the various interpretations and challenges surrounding the passage, aiming to provide clarity and guidance for modern believers. Ultimately, he encourages a balanced approach to this topic, rooted in scripture and respectful of tradition.
(The Lord and His Church) 7. the Adulterous Church
By Zac Poonen2Authority in the ChurchSpiritual CompromiseREV 2:18Zac Poonen addresses the issue of spiritual compromise within the church of Thyatira, highlighting the dangers of tolerating false teachings represented by the figure of Jezebel. He emphasizes that while the church had shown growth in deeds, the quality of their faith had diminished due to worldly influences and a lack of strong leadership. Poonen warns against the spiritual adultery that arises from false grace teachings, which lead believers to take sin lightly. He calls for repentance and urges the faithful to hold fast to true grace, promising that those who overcome will be rewarded with authority and the presence of Christ. The sermon serves as a reminder of the need for discernment and steadfastness in faith amidst challenges.
Letter: 50e 103 W Kelly, -, 1846
By John Nelson Darby0Authority in the ChurchGrace vs. False Pretension1CO 2:12EPH 4:11John Nelson Darby addresses the importance of true grace versus false pretensions in the church, warning against the dangers of self-confidence masked as humility. He emphasizes that authority in the church comes solely from the Holy Spirit and not from human traditions or arrangements, urging believers to rely on God's truth rather than man-made doctrines. Darby encourages his brother to stand firm in faith and to engage in spiritual battles, asserting that the church must remain subject to the truth of God's Word. He highlights the necessity of maintaining a direct relationship with God, free from interposed authority that could lead to sin. Ultimately, he reassures that God will preserve the essential truths of the faith among His elect until the end.
1 Corinthians 11
By John Nelson Darby0Authority in the ChurchOrder in Worship1CO 11:3John Nelson Darby discusses 1 Corinthians 11, emphasizing the connection between spiritual truths and everyday practices, such as a woman's head covering during prayer and prophesying. He explains that women have a role in the church but must recognize the authority of men, and he stresses the importance of order and modesty in worship. Darby also addresses the significance of the Lord's Supper, warning against disorder and emphasizing the need for self-examination among believers. He highlights the distinction between preaching and teaching, asserting that women should not take on teaching roles in the assembly. Ultimately, he calls for a proper understanding of authority and the divine order within the church.
The Keys of the Kingdom
By G.W. North0Authority in the ChurchThe Role of PeterMAT 16:19ACT 2:38G.W. North emphasizes the unique role of Peter in the establishment of the Church, highlighting how Jesus bestowed upon him the keys of the Kingdom, granting him a singular authority to open the Kingdom of God to all people. This divine appointment underscores the importance of accepting God's choices and gifts with humility, as Peter was tasked with the responsibility of leading others to faith and the Holy Spirit. On the day of Pentecost, Peter fulfilled this promise, demonstrating his pivotal role in spreading the gospel to Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and ultimately to the Gentiles. North illustrates that Peter's ministry was essential for the inclusion of all believers into the Kingdom, as he was the key figure in ensuring that the Samaritans received the Holy Spirit. The sermon calls for recognition of God's sovereign decisions in the distribution of spiritual authority and the importance of fulfilling one's God-given responsibilities.
On Adolescence
By Art Katz0Authority in the ChurchSpiritual Maturity1CO 13:11EPH 4:14Art Katz discusses the spiritual parallels of adolescence within the church, likening its current state to the tumultuous teenage years characterized by self-centeredness, rebellion against authority, and a quest for identity and significance. He highlights the church's indulgence in superficiality and the rejection of substantial authority, mirroring the behaviors of adolescents who prioritize peer approval over parental guidance. Katz emphasizes the need for maturity and the dangers of remaining in this adolescent phase, which can lead to spiritual stagnation and chaos. He calls for a deeper understanding and correction within the body of Christ to foster growth and responsibility. The sermon serves as a wake-up call for the church to recognize its current struggles and seek a path toward spiritual maturity.