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The Church Of Christ - 6 The Organizational Structure Of The Local Church
In lesson 5 we saw some differences in how the Bible uses the word “church” in a universal sense and in a local sense. Among the differences we observed was regarding its organizational structure.
In contrast with the universal church (and its lack of an earthly organizational structure), God has given each local church a specific organizational structure. He has certainly equipped the local church with all it needs in order to be self-governing.
In addition, as we begin to consider the God-given organizational structure for a local church, it is important to recognize that local churches were authorized by God to exist without this organizational structure (i.e. without elders and deacons).
Still, it is important to recognize that even though congregations were authorized to exist in the New Testament without elders and deacons, this was not what God desired from them. There was a reason elders were appointed in every church in Acts 14:23.
The purpose of this sixth lesson in the study, “The Church Of Christ,” is to help you gain a better understanding of the God-given organizational structure of the local church. Note that this applies to every local church.
Outline
The Church Of Christ
Lesson 6: The Organizational Structure Of The Local Church
Does the universal church have an earthly organizational structure?
Has God provided the local church with an organizational structure?
1. Elders
How many Greek words are used in reference to this office in the local church? What do these
words indicate?
What qualifications must these individuals meet? List some observations concerning these
qualifications.
What is the work of elders?
How many elders must there be?
What is the scope of the elders’ oversight?
2. Deacons
What does the Greek word “diakonos” mean?
What qualifications must these individuals meet? List some observations concerning these
qualifications.
What is the work of deacons?
3. Saints
Who are “saints”? Does this constitute an “office” within a local church?
What is the work of individual Christians?
What is the importance of each Christian’s contribution to the local church?
4. Evangelists
Does this constitute an “office” within a local church?
What qualifications must these individuals meet? List some observations concerning these
qualifications.
What is the work of evangelists?