Quote:
Originally Posted by Ohio
It is the height of reckless speculation to equate Nicholas from Antioch, a former convert to Judaism, and appointed as one of the seven deacons by the Apostles in Jerusalem, to be the leader of the Nicolaitams in Ephesus a half century later. You built your theories around Acts 6.5?
The so-called "clergy" were established by the apostles when they decided to order the churches with elders and deacons.
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Equating "clergy" with clergy is equally as reckless and ignorant of the bible and history.
Firstly, the apostles did not decide that, the Holy Spirit did and the Spirit chose the elders and deacons. Did the Holy Spirit choose the Pope and his cardinals, bishops etc?, or any other heirarchy? No, they were completely from man's decisions.
Secondly the Holy Spirit did not divide the church into clergy and laity, or put a separating or so called "altar rail" between them, or "altar calls".
Thirdly, the Holy Spirit did not suppress the function and use of gifts and callings by unqualified people.
Fourthly the Holy Spirit did not create a system in which only theologically qualified people can preach or handle the communion bread and wine.
I could go on.