Following God’s Plan

by Zeke Flores

Following the pattern of authority in the Bible isn't hard; individuals and churches just need to make up their minds to do it. That means doing things that might run counter to what we've always believed.

For instance, raising money for the local church using methods other than the free-will giving of its members is against the New Testament pattern.

• That means "church owned" bookstores, coffee shops, or cafes are unscriptural.
• Using the church's treasury to provide benevolence to non-Christians is contrary to the New Testament pattern. So church-run food pantries or clothing stores are unscriptural.
• Using the church's treasury to provide recreation or other social activities for its members is against the New Testament pattern. So, church-financed so-called "fellowship meals" in a church kitchen are unscriptural.
• Using musical instruments to accompany congregational singing is contrary to the New Testament pattern. So, using a piano, a guitar, or any other musical instrument, even if it's just a "small one," is unscriptural.

Does that mean that I can't enjoy a meal with my brethren? Of course not, but it's up to me to provide the hospitality, not the church's treasury. If a non-Christian needs some help with food, it's my personal responsibility to aid the needy, not the church's treasury. If I want my local church to accomplish the work God has given it, I must support it with my own financial contributions and not expect it to go into business to finance the work.

The most important part of recognizing scriptural authority is respecting the One to whom it belongs. We need to remember that it's Christ's church, not ours, and He has the right to regulate its practices as He sees fit.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work" (II Timothy 3:16-17).