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Ecclesiology reminds us that we need other believers. It opposes themindset of radical individualism, independence, and autonomy.
Ecclesiology reminds us that we need other believers. It opposes the mindset of radical individualism, independence, and autonomy. Yet it also opposes the total or absolute subordination of individuals to the authority of a leader.
For example, the teaching that the church is Christ’s body presses upon us the reality that each of us is only one member—an eye, ear, hand, or foot. Not one of us has all the gifts. Therefore, we need one another. Furthermore, we are organically bound together by the Holy Spirit, so that what affects one member touches us all (1 Cor. 12:12–28). The more we marinate our minds in this truth, the more we will learn humility, interdependence, cooperation, and appreciation for one another.
Another example can be found in the teaching of the plurality of the eldership. The pattern in the New Testament is for each church to have more than one elder.1Acts 14:23; 20:17; Phil. 1:1; Titus 1:5; James 5:14. The plurality of the eldership will be discussed in chap. 9. This pattern creates an atmosphere of mutual support and accountability within the eldership of the church. It teaches us that no one man has the wisdom, grace, or gifts to lead a church on his own. For the sake of both pastors and churches, we should avoid putting anyone in the position of serving alone. Insofar as it is possible, each church should seek qualified men to form a team of leaders.
Excerpt by
Reformed Systematic Theology, Volume 4
Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley
