Quote:
Originally Posted by Peter Debelak
2) I agree about a "hierarchy" of laws. But if HUMANS are going to be seen to have "authority" the question must me asked, "from where is that authority derived." Is it from God? If so, what is the scope of that authority - does it extend to those not within the congregation? If it is only upon the congregation, what is the source of the congregation's identity? That is, why is this congregation distinct from others? ANd then where do its leaders derive their authority? It's more complicated than traffic cops.
Its one thing to say human groups need human structure - even Christian groups. It's another thing to say the "leaders" of that group have "authority" beyond that bestowed by the congregation (every human group can grant its "leaders" authority by democratically or otherwise consenting to that authority). If, on the other hand, the claim is that the authority is derived from God, that brings a whole BUNCH of other questions.
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1. The authority is derived from God. Human government was ordained by God after Noah's flood. Yes, the authority extends to police, employers, IRS, etc.
2. The authority of the church derives from Jesus Resurrection and ascension. He said "all authority has been given unto Me" and Ephesians says that Christ has been given to the church as head over all things.
3. Heb 13:7 refers to obeying those that "have rule over you". To have "rule" means you have authority. For example, the church might purchase a van but only one brother has "authority" over it. If you need access to the van you need to get permission from this brother. This brother would then give you the rules and requirements for using the van. Now if you want to use the church's van then this brother has "rule" over you. He can tell you when, he can tell you how long, he can tell you who can drive and who can't, he can tell you who can be in the van and who can't. Other brothers may have the authority to decide who can and who cannot attend meetings. They could lock doors, escort people out, call the police, etc. Now the thorny issue becomes if they decide you cannot meet with the congregation does that mean that God agrees with them?
In the case presented in 1Cor the answer would be yes. The authority that Paul exercised was derived from the New Testament. The brother wasn't excommunicated because of "Paul's" authority but because Jesus had already condemned sin, and the flesh on the cross.