Misrepresenting God: Delegated Authority (Nee)

[Nell]

Precap:

• "To be an authority is to represent God."
  
• "He (Moses) had misrepresented God, for it was of himself that he had had a wrong spirit and had thus spoken wrongly and smote wrongly."
  
• "(Moses) ... he gave the people of Israel a wrong impression about God, as though God were fierce and reviling and lacking in grace."
  
• "Nothing is more serious nor regarded more severely than for a delegated authority to do wrongly."
  
• "Let us be careful that we never draw God into human failure ..."
  
• "The government of God ought not be offended. Let us be clear about it." (Watchman Nee)

Spiritual Authority, Misuse of Authority and Gods Governmental Discipline, p. 149 Watchman Nee (Original printing before LSM split Nee's original book)
And there was no Water for the congregation; and they assembled themselves together against Moses and against Aaron. And the people strove with Moses, and spake, saying, Would that we had died when our brethren died before Jehovah! ... And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying, Take the rod, and assemble the congregation, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes, that it give forth its water; and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock; so thou shalt give the congregation and their cattle drink. And Moses took the rod from before Jehovah, as he commanded him.

And Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; shall we bring you forth water out of this rock? And Moses lifted up his hand, and smote the rock with his rod twice: and water came forth abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their cattle. And Jehovah said unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed not in me, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them. These are the waters of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with Jehovah, and he was sanctified in them. (Num. 20.2-3,7-13)

And Jehovah spake unto Moses and Aaron in mount Nor, by the border of the land of Edom, saying, Aaron shall be gathered unto his people; for he shall not enter into the land which I have given unto the children of Israel, because ye rebelled against my word at the waters of Meribah. Take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them up unto mount (p. 148) Nor; and strip Aaron of his garments, and put them upon Eleazar his son: and Aaron shall be gathered unto his people, and shall die there. And Moses did as Jehovah commanded: and they went up into mount Nor in the sight of all the congregation. And Moses stripped Aaron of his garments, and put them upon Eleasar his son; and Aaron died there on the top of the mount: and Moses and Eleasar came down from the mount. (Num. 20.23-28)

And Jehovah spake unto Moses that selfsame day, saying, Get thee up into this mountain of Abarim, unto mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab, that is over against Jericho; and behold the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel for a possession; and die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother died in mount Nor, and was gathered unto his people: because ye trespassed against me in the midst of the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah of Fadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel. For thou shalt see the land before thee; but thou shalt not go thither into the land which I give the children of Israel. (Deut. 32.48-52)

Delegated Authority Ought to Sanctify God
After over thirty years of wandering in the wilderness the people of Israel again forgot the lessons they had learned through their rebellion. When they came to the wilderness of Zin and found no water they once again contended with Moses and Aaron, uttering many unpleasant words. God nevertheless was not angry with them. He merely commanded to take the rod and speak to the rock that it might give water. Moses took the rod, a symbol of God's authority, in his hands. However, he was so provoked by anger that he called the people rebels and then, ignoring God's command, he smote the rock twice with the rod. He erred, yet water still flowed out of the rock.

Because of this, God reprimanded His servant, saying, "You did not believe in me, to sanctify me in the eyes of the people of Israel." It meant that Moses had not set God apart from himself and Aaron. He had misrepresented God, for it was of himself that he had had a wrong spirit and had thus spoken wrongly and smote wrongly. God seemingly remonstrated with Moses on this wise: "I saw my people thirsty and was willing to give them to drink, so why did you scold them?" God did not reprove the people, but Moses did. And so he gave the people of Israel a wrong impression about God, as though God were fierce and reviling and lacking in grace.

To be an authority is to represent God. Whether it be in wrath or mercy, an authority must always be like God. If, in such a position, we do anything wrong, we should acknowledge it as our own doing. We ought never draw God into our own fault. Because Moses misrepresented God, he had to be judged. If anyone in authority misrepresents God and does not confess it, God will have to vindicate Himself.

Thus He showed the people of Israel that this was Moses' doing, not His. True, the people had murmured and perhaps their attitude had been rebellious, nevertheless God had not judged them. How could Moses be so impatient as to judge them before God did, and to speak angrily without restraint? It was his attitude and his wrath, but most likely the people of Israel got the impression that it was God's attitude and God's wrath. Hence God had to acquit Himself by separating Himself from Moses and Aaron.

Let us be careful that we never draw God into human failure by giving the wrong impression that He is expressing His attitude through us. In case such a wrong impression is made, God will have to absolve Himself. A delegated authority is supposed to manage affairs for God. If we should become angry, let us confess that this anger comes from us and not from God. The two must be separated. It is a dreadful thing to mix up one 's own doing with God's.

We are too prone to err. Accordingly, whenever we do err, let (p. 150) us immediately acknowledge that it is our own error. Then we will not misrepresent God and give the evil one any ground, nor will we fall into darkness. If we confess first, then God will not need to defend Himself and we shall be delivered from falling into His governmental hand.

To Be a Delegated Authority Is a Serious Matter

As a consequence of the above incident, God announced that both Moses and Aaron were not to be allowed to enter Canaan. If a person should speak carelessly and do something in a way which does not sanctify God, then, from the moment God has to step in to justify Himself there is no way left to ask for forgiveness. We must fear and tremble when we are managing the affairs of God. Let us beware lest we grow careless and reckless as we become older.

In the earlier days, when Moses' anger burned hot and he smashed into pieces the tables on which God had written the law, God did not blame him. He had touched God's heart of jealousy, and so his anger was justified. Now, after having followed the Lord for many more years and yet failing to do as He commanded by smiting the rock twice and speaking hasty words, Moses had misrepresented God. For this, he was kept out of Canaan.

The people of Israel rebelled against God many times, but He was patient with them. Moses and Aaron, though, committed one mistake and yet they were barred from Canaan. It shows how serious it is to be delegated authorities. God is most strict with those who represent Him. In Numbers 18 the Lord said to Aaron, "Thou and thy sons and thy fathers' house with thee shall bear the iniquity of the sanctuary" (verse 1). The more authority which is delegated, the severer is God's dealing. The Lord also said, "To whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required: and to whom they commit much, of him will they ask the more" (Luke 12.48).

It is truly a beautiful picture to see Moses and Aaron and Eleazar his son ascend together to Mount Hor. All of them were obedient to God in humbly accepting God 's judgment. They did not even pray, for they knew God. Aaron knew his day had arrived, and Moses was also conscious of his own future. God ordered Moses to perform the transaction, since at the waters of Meribah Moses had also been the chief character. By viewing how Aaron went, it was made known to Moses how he would also go.

As Aaron was stripped of his holy garments, he died. Ordinarily people do not die by their clothes being stripped off, but Aaron did, because his life was maintained by service. This suggests that the life of one who serves God ceases when his service ends.

Many years elapsed after the above, yet God's judgment did not pass away. Eventually He dealt with Moses in the same way He had dealt with Aaron. He summoned Moses to Mount Nebo to die, even though during the intervening years Moses had remained faithful. Before his death Moses blessed the people of Israel with a song, but he did not ask to be exempted from his particular judgment (see Deut. 33). He too humbled himself under the mighty hand of God. He who had represented God's authority and who had obeyed Him all his life except in that one instance in his old age, was not permitted to enter Canaan. What tremendous loss Moses incurred. He could not partake of God's promise made to Abraham six hundred years ago!

Nothing is more serious nor regarded more severely than for a delegated authority to do wrongly. Every time we execute authority we must ask to be united with God. If a mistake is made let us swiftly separate it from God lest we incur His judgment. Before we decide anything, let us seek to know His mind. Only after ascertaining His mind may we do it in His name. Moses could not claim that what he had done at the waters of Meribah was done in the Lord's name. Let us not be foolish, but let us learn to fear and tremble before God. Do not render judgment carelessly; rather, control your spirit and your mouth, especially at the time of provocation. The more one knows God, (p. 152) the less he is careless. There are some times when one may receive forgiveness after having fallen into God's governmental hand, but this does not always happen. The government of God ought not be offended. Let us be clear about it. (Watchman Nee)

Nell

[Nell]

For this discussion, do we have to subscribe to the premise that the "Delegated Authority" teaching by Nee is a legitimate interpretation of Scripture...that Nee and Lee are correct? Not necessarily. I think these verses stand alone. Moses and Aaron sinned by drawing God into their sin and misrepresenting Him. I also think Nee's discussion is pretty good.

This discussion by Nee has been ignored to the extent that LSM split Nee's book "Spiritual Authority" to exclude the responsibilities of their Delegated Authorities.

So what do we do if we have a grievance against an elder?

Nell

[Nell]

In the New Testament we are told:

• 1 Timothy 5:20 (NIV) 20 But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.
  
• 1 Timothy 5:20 (KJV) 20 Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
  
• 1 Timothy 5:20 (NET Bible) 20 Those guilty of sin must be rebuked before all, as a warning to the rest.

As "delegated authorities" or "deputy authorities" were not given a free pass in the Old Testament, neither are they given a free pass in the New Testament. The difference being, in the Old Testament, God dealt with Moses and Aaron personally. In the New Testament that responsibility is given to the church to deal with a sinning brother. 1 Tim. 5:20 doesn't say to rebuke those who sin...except for elders.

Tell it to the Church
15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

Who is the Church?

The Bible tells us to practice conflict resolution, but it doesn't tell us exactly how to do it.

Believers seem to believe that "tell it to the church" means "tell it to the elders" or to the church leadership. What if the sinning brother is an elder? This would seem to present a dilemma. Would you expect a fair hearing from elders who have offended the membership?

Where does it say in the Bible that "tell it to the church" means definitively "tell it to the elders"? Are we not all members of the church, the Lord's Body?

Are we then free to tell all Christians? Technically, probably, yes. Should we? I don't think so. Then, who do we "tell"?

Logically, those church members who have knowledge of the situation, love for the brothers in question, and are in a position to "hear" would be the best church audience to hear a matter of grievance brought against an elder. In a Local Church locality, all regular attendees of meetings would be in a position to "hear" a grievance against an elder.

Nell

[TLFisher]

Originally Posted by Nell

Who is the Church?

The Bible tells us to practice conflict resolution, but it doesn't tell us exactly how to do it.

Believers seem to believe that "tell it to the church" means "tell it to the elders" or to the church leadership. What if the sinning brother is an elder? This would seem to present a dilemma. Would you expect a fair hearing from elders who have offended the membership?

Where does it say in the Bible that "tell it to the church" means definitively "tell it to the elders"? Are we not all members of the church, the Lord's Body?

Are we then free to tell all Christians? Technically, probably, yes. Should we? I don't think so. Then, who do we "tell"?

Logically, those church members who have knowledge of the situation, love for the brothers in question, and are in a position to "hear" would be the best church audience to hear a matter of grievance brought against an elder. In a Local Church locality, all regular attendees of meetings would be in a position to "hear" a grievance against an elder.

Nell

I don't disagree with you Nell. From what you've posted it's sound on paper regarding delegated authority. Problem I find in the current LSM version of delegated authority is the absence of character. Current so-called delegated authorities have exhibit pride instead of humility. So-called delegated authorities are quick to anger instead of slow to anger. From my observation and interaction with elders, they are political showing no impartiality towards their fellow elders who are considered "in good standing" with LSM leadership. Generally the phrase uttered is "cover the brothers"....A more specific paraphrased quote I have been told is "keep matters in house".
Why must all grievances against an elder be confined to "the fellowship room"?

[OBW]

The question I have, like on some other issues, is whether it is important that we understand something that could be called "delegated authority" in this day and age outside of the very terms that are already used for whatever human authority there should be in the church.

These special doctrines that are codified seem too often to be for the purpose of making them into more than they actually are. Like making an elder or other leader immune to claims of wrongdoing. Like when Nee claimed that only God could deal with the sins of a deputy authority.

Really? Fire must come down from heaven to consume the pedophile priests? Or condemn church leaders for abusive practices? (not just thinking about the LCM here)

But this is where deputy authority was going. Even if Nee seemed to write (some) truth in the book, was it really there for that truth? Or was if for the purpose of arriving at a place where he could never be excommunicated again for sexual immorality? And if you want to be part of this congregation, you have to go along with this new rule that exempts me from claims of any wrongdoing that the police will not come arrest me for.

[HERn]

Originally Posted by OBW

The question I have, like on some other issues, is whether it is important that we understand something that could be called "delegated authority" in this day and age outside of the very terms that are already used for whatever human authority there should be in the church.

These special doctrines that are codified seem too often to be for the purpose of making them into more than they actually are. Like making an elder or other leader immune to claims of wrongdoing. Like when Nee claimed that only God could deal with the sins of a deputy authority.

Really? Fire must come down from heaven to consume the pedophile priests? Or condemn church leaders for abusive practices? (not just thinking about the LCM here)

But this is where deputy authority was going. Even if Nee seemed to write (some) truth in the book, was it really there for that truth? Or was if for the purpose of arriving at a place where he could never be excommunicated again for sexual immorality? And if you want to be part of this congregation, you have to go along with this new rule that exempts me from claims of any wrongdoing that the police will not come arrest me for.

My gut tells me both Née and Lee used that doctrine to cover their ugly a#&. Yes, I know I'm cynical, pray for me.

[Nell]

Originally Posted by OBW

The question I have, like on some other issues, is whether it is important that we understand something that could be called "delegated authority" in this day and age outside of the very terms that are already used for whatever human authority there should be in the church.

These special doctrines that are codified seem too often to be for the purpose of making them into more than they actually are. Like making an elder or other leader immune to claims of wrongdoing. Like when Nee claimed that only God could deal with the sins of a deputy authority.

Really? Fire must come down from heaven to consume the pedophile priests? Or condemn church leaders for abusive practices? (not just thinking about the LCM here)

But this is where deputy authority was going. Even if Nee seemed to write (some) truth in the book, was it really there for that truth? Or was if for the purpose of arriving at a place where he could never be excommunicated again for sexual immorality? And if you want to be part of this congregation, you have to go along with this new rule that exempts me from claims of any wrongdoing that the police will not come arrest me for.

"was it really there for that truth?" The answer to your question may be in the fact that LSM divided Nee's book "Spiritual Authority" into two books. The section on Misrepresenting God by Delegated Authority was in the 2nd book. If you didn't read the 2nd book, you wouldn't know that the DA's had any responsibility in accurately representing God.

Another question is, as you seem to touch on, Who talks this way? Who talks about authority in the church?

Nell

[Nell]

Originally Posted by Terry

...Why must all grievances against an elder be confined to "the fellowship room"?

The Matt. 18 doesn't distinguish grievances among the believers in the church whether elder/s or not. Does it? The only issue is whether or not the grieved is "heard" or not. First in private, next with 2-3 witnesses, then by the church.

Nell

[Ohio]

Originally Posted by Nell

To be an authority is to represent God. Whether it be in wrath or mercy, an authority must always be like God. If, in such a position, we do anything wrong, we should acknowledge it as our own doing. We ought never draw God into our own fault. Because Moses misrepresented God, he had to be judged. If anyone in authority misrepresents God and does not confess it, God will have to vindicate Himself.

To Be a Delegated Authority Is a Serious Matter. Nothing is more serious nor regarded more severely than for a delegated authority to do wrongly. Every time we execute authority we must ask to be united with God. If a mistake is made let us swiftly separate it from God lest we incur His judgment.

The Bible does make it clear that some men of God are placed in authority, and as such they represent God. Actually all God's children represent Him to some degree, and should be keenly aware that their failures bring shame to His name. Even more so are the failures of those called by God to be leaders of His people. Leaders in the O.T. such as Moses and David brought much honor to God, yet the Bible is faithful to also record their failures. Peter likewise in the N.T. brought much glory to the Lord, yet his own failures were made public. W. Nee's words here are a sobering reminder to all Christian leaders.

First of all, leaders should never elevate themselves above all others in the eyes of God's people. The Lord Jesus clearly opposed this in the Gospels. No minister should ever assume a position over all of God's church. The early apostles never did this. There is no justification whatsoever for a "vicar of Christ," a pope, "our brother," the holy see, the minister of the age, or whatever imaginative title men might dream up.

Hebrews makes it clear that Moses was a type of Christ (Hebrews 3.1-6) building God's house, and never a type of N.T. leaders. Using the pattern of Moses to establish your power base has no scriptural authority. There are no "delegated authorities" in the N.T. of the order of Moses. Paul, Peter, and John were some of the many apostles of God.

The LC's under Witness Lee became a strong counter-example of why the Bible is written as it was. In a word, power corrupts men, and power definitely corrupts even Christian men. Jesus Christ alone is Head of the church, our Great Shepherd, the Minister of the Ages, and today's Moses, today's Noah, today's David, today's Solomon, etc. Witness Lee abused the authority he had from God. He damaged others, and brought shame to His holy name. Within LSM and the Recovery, Lee even exalted his own reprobate and profligate son Philip above the Lord, while destroying other men of God placed in authority. All this was done to preserve his own reputation, and save himself from repentance. Sounds like base gain and filthy lucre.