Thinking of foundations(posted at theekklesiachurch)
March 9, 2009
This posting is prompted by all the recent focus on foundational
concepts--oaths, vows, estates, orders, vows of poverty, body politic,
systems of law, ministers, baptism, bishops, etc.
So often it seems to me that the essence of so many of these matters is
so simple, but in discussion they become so complicated and complex.
And I wonder whether the difference is caused by a failure to keep in
the center of attention a living Lord who knows everything, has all
power, has been given all authority over all things, and has earned all
the rights and blessings he is disbursing among his people. He paid the
price, once, for all. His invitation is, "Come to me, all who are weary
and burdened, and I will give you rest."
Accepting that invitation leads to absolute, unconditional surrender of
self, and a dedication to his will. To the extent that they experience
that change, his followers seek in all their thoughts, words, and
actions to do as he leads. They have abandoned their claims to
self-interest. They have found a new family of fathers, mothers,
brothers, and sisters. Everything they possess is available for their
Lord's purposes among his family or in his world.
All of this is of course seen and known only by faith. The concepts
seem imaginary and illusory unless that Lord really is living, really
knows everything that is happening, including thoughts in minds, really
is able to communicate with those who seek his will, really controls
what goes on in his world, really is able to protect, provide for, and
build his church, and really will govern in the best interests of his
followers.
Those who ignore that living Lord are doomed to design and implement
endless human constructions to protect people and provide for their
needs, set up systems of laws, and engage in a perpetual search for
those who can serve well as authorized officials in the cause.
Among those who become one among those in his new order, the simplest
who hear his voice are equipped to serve as stewards, ministers,
trustees, deacons, or bishops. The terms designate function more than
separation. All participate in the Spirit of the new age. None are
dependent upon others for access to the Source.
John
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