Exploring the possibility of real unity under one roof despite differences of opinion
Fostering Wolves
When we elevate individuals in the church by kowtowing to them and their opinions, they can easily begin to think that they are superior to the group. And, very quickly they can seem distant and untouchable in the minds of regular members. It’s already a challenge to hold regular people accountable to one another and God’s word; imagine how much harder if someone has the idea of having preeminence. And, all the harder still if others believe the preeminence to be true.
These elevated individuals can subtly influence the flock or even blatantly rule them. Either way, it’s an environment for fostering false teaching. Paul warned the elders of Ephesus saying that “savage wolves will come among you and not spare the flock. Indeed, some of your own men will come forward and distort the truth in order to lure the disciples into following them” (Acts 20:29-30). Ever wonder why we have anointed men and women speaking different messages to one another to their own band of followers? I suggest that elevating people or allowing them to elevate themselves has contributed to this.
Super-Gurus
Paul readily used terms of equality when referring to people that he was a leader among; terms like, brother, partner, co-worker and fellow soldier. It shows his mindset and that of the early church. Super-gurus existed, but weren’t elevated.
There are, no doubt, some incredibly anointed teachers in the body of Christ, but as anointed as they may be, they are not above anyone else or above having their message examined in the light of God’s word. The Bereans, in Acts 17, didn’t dance around Paul, and they were commended for testing his message against scripture. In the same way, we should be able to test a speaker’s message and openly share our opinions if we believe the Bible to be saying something different. Also, this kind of interactive environment with a teacher can allow for more growth than simply hearing a one-way message.
Leaders Entangled in Sin
God’s word speaks of “the sin that so easily entangles us” (Heb. 12:1). Here, the author, a church leader, has clearly included himself with the pronoun “us”. By putting our church leaders over us, they are easily isolated and are more susceptible to fall into sin. Then, once involved with sin and without help, like a python strangling its prey, things can get more and more serious for them. Or, having begun with something small, the sin escalates to something more devastating.
Allowing formal or even subconscious hierarchy amongst us is a trap that can bring awful damage to the leader and to those who have wrongly elevated him. When leaders go astray, it is far less of an earth shattering experience if they are among the flock and not over them. Having been seen as equal to everyone else and just as vulnerable to sin and error, they are more reachable and easily helped.
Leading without Hierarchy
This requires brave leadership. No fear to lose people. Jesus lost many, but gained true followers through the Spirit. Don’t control; Jesus didn’t! You cannot really hold it together anyway. Members are designed to learn and grow in freedom. They are not yours!
For the sake of unity and fellowship it seems that if we focus on agreement over issues and on doctrine that we will always divide and be divided. If, however, we fix our eyes on Him who fellowships with each of us, despite our differences, then we may be able to accept one another with the same mercy and grace shown to us. He lovingly holds us together in fellowship in His body, made possible by His death, resurrection and ascension.
If the Sadducees and the Pharisees, with all their differences, could come together under one roof, how much more can’t we who are unified by God’s Spirit and placed in the body of Christ. Jesus came under the same roof as people who rejected Him and who would have Him crucified! How far are you prepared to go?
Too idealistic for this world?! Yes, but, remember, we are not of this world!
Rob
Other posts in this series:
Part 3: Blissfully Ignorant in My Church
Real Church Life 
I appreciate this blog.
Years ago Francis Schaeffer wrote a wonderful little booklet, ‘The New Superspirituality.’ He was writing in a different context, but we certainly have the ‘superspirituals’ with us today, both in ‘leadership’ and in ‘membership.’ The resultant self-exaltation can be so damaging to biblical/spiritual unity. I lost fellowship with a dear brother whom I had mentored because, after starting out so humbly, he came to believe he had a special hotline to heaven which could not be questioned.
I love Paul’s call to humility in Phil. 2:1-5.
Sorry for such a late response. I appreciate your thoughtful response and especially your reference to Phil. 2:1-5
This post completely answers some concerns I expressed on another blog, my inlaw’s pastor has started stealing their money and property now that my mother in law has died! The whole description of a “super guru” fits him. We will beat him with the law but now I know how to address the sense of deceit that I feel. Perhaps it’s not a religion issue so much as a failing of the congregation who elavated him?
Thank you
I’m glad that you found the post helpful for the messy issue that you are dealing with.