PANEL Discussions
Dr. Charles L. Feinberg
Dr. J. Richard Chase
Dr. Samuel H. Sutherland
Q. Alpine, Calif. "What is the def inition of a bishop in the local assembly? What are the qualifica tions of a pastor and a deacon? A. These are very proper New Tes tament words. As the church grew there was a need for specific assignments and responsibilities. Some of these offices are com pletely different today from what they were then. “ Bishop" means "overseer." The same definition could be given to the title “ elder." ("Bishop" today stands for an ec clesiastical order.) I Timothy 3 gives the duties of an “ overseer." Philippians 1:1 reveals that "bish ops and deacons" were the two main offices in those days. The qualifications of a pastor follow these same precise lines. He is the teaching elder in the New Testa ment concept (I Timothy 3:1, 2). When it comes to deacons, look at the statement beginning in verse eight. In Acts 6 we read concerning the inauguration of the office of deacon. There were problems because some of the menial, but important tasks, were not being accomplished These men were ap
pointed to serve in the material things of the church. They were also to be men of outstanding spir itual experience. In the present-day sense a pastor is the full-time "teaching elder." As such he receives a salary from the people so that he can give his full time to the spiritual ministry of the church. A deacon is to take care of the material and physical aspects of the organization. Both should be men of great spiritual insight. Do not downgrade the po sition of deacon. It is a very great responsibility and challenge. Q. Mission Hills, Calif. " Would you please explain Matthew 6:15? How can we reconcile this with I lohn 1:9?" A. In this case a proper dispensa- tional interpretation is of tremen dous help. We have to realize at what stage certain truths are given. In theology we know of "progres sive doctrine." That is, Cod begins to indicate a truth, and then more is added until we have the full and complete revelation. This first pas- Page 21
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