Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business… Acts 6:1-3 [Hellenists were Greek converts to Judaism.]

We have previously sought to make it clear that the Apostles were a unique set of men in the history of the Church. With the death of the last Apostle (most probably, John), the Apostolic age ended. There are no Apostles since, nor will there be any.

The Church has come up with all sorts of ideas about who its human spiritual leaders are. The Church has even—most unbiblically, I might add—established priesthoods and all manner of extra-biblical hierarchy. Big mistake!

The model that is clearest, and more importantly, most biblical, is that there are two (and only two) offices in the Church. They are elders and deacons. The elders are the spiritual “rulers” of the Church. I dislike that word, but the Bible calls elders “rulers” (1 Timothy 5:17, Hebrews 13:17). The word is accurate when we remember Jesus’ words about “rulership” in the Church in Matthew 20:25-28. Jesus says spiritual leadership is servant-leadership.

What is the connection between the apostles in the first century and elders ever since? Both lead (or rule, to use biblical terms). Both lead by serving rather than by being served. Both must attend first to prayer and the ministry of the Word.

Now here is the big difference: Apostles were given special authority. The only authority elders have is the authority of the Word of God. We have no authority except that of the Word of God. When 1 Timothy 5:17 says the elders are worthy of honor, that honor is not for them as men, but as those whose calling and office is to labor in the Word and doctrine. Assuming elders are acting biblically as servant leaders and claim no authority for themselves, but instead point God’s people only and always to the authority of the Word, honor them. But know that the honor is of the Word.

Next time: Deacons are not elders.