Bible Discussion Thread

in Romans 13 we give honor and respect to those in authority in the church I.E. Apostles Prophets Evangelists Pastors and Teacher. In timothy we pray for leaders of our country or community big difference

Dianne,

The honor and respect deserved, is conditional upon those leaders meeting the qualifications of "For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil." Too many leaders, regardless of whether in the church or government, embrace evil. And while the office they hold by the power of men deserves respect, all respect deserved and power over believers is dependent on what their character shows us. God defines for us those he has empowered to rule our affairs. Believers are not to yield to evil, but instead, resist even unto death of the body.

Chris, " What sort of Pastor must he be as described in verse 4?" I believe the position could be either a believer or an unbeliever, in the latter case, a hireling. "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." Proverbs 21:1

So you understand Romans 13:1-7 to apply to the authority within the Church? It would be interesting to read other views on this. I've re-read the passage now & just can't fit our Church leaders into that narrative. What sort of Pastor must he be as described in verse 4?