How should Acts 18:15 influence our approach to church leadership and governance? Setting the Scene “ But since it is a question about words and names and your own law, see to it yourselves. I will not be a judge of such things.” (Acts 18:15) Gallio, the Roman proconsul, refuses to meddle in a dispute about doctrine. He pushes responsibility back onto the synagogue leaders, insisting they govern their own religious affairs. Core Lesson: God Expects His People to Govern Their Own House • Civil authorities are not designed to shepherd the church; that task belongs to Spirit-appointed elders (Acts 20:28). • The church must not abdicate doctrinal or disciplinary decisions to outsiders. • Scripture, not secular courts, is the final authority for belief and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Implications for Church Leadership 1. Autonomy under Christ – Each local body is accountable to Christ the Head (Colossians 1:18). – Elders and deacons bear primary responsibility for teaching, guarding, and guiding (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9). 2. Internal Dispute Resolution – Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a step-by-step process for handling sin and conflict. – 1 Corinthians 6:1-4 warns against dragging believers before secular courts. – Leaders must cultivate a culture where reconciliation happens biblically and quickly. 3. Doctrinal Vigilance – Gallio’s indifference reminds leaders that outsiders may not grasp the gravity of doctrinal error. – Elders must “be able to teach” and “hold firmly to the trustworthy word” (Titus 1:9). – Protecting orthodoxy is shepherding, not optional administration (Acts 20:29-31). 4. Respect for Civil Authority, Without Dependence – Romans 13:1-7 calls believers to honor government. – Yet Acts 4:19-20 shows that obedience to God outranks human authority when the two collide. – Healthy churches cooperate with the state where appropriate (property, safety, taxes) but never cede spiritual authority. Practical Checklist for Today’s Elders and Deacons • Establish a clear, Scripture-anchored constitution or bylaws. • Train members on Matthew 18 reconciliation before conflict arises. • Hold regular elder meetings focused on doctrine, prayer, and pastoral care—not merely logistics. • When legal issues surface, seek biblical counsel first, civil counsel second. • Teach the congregation why church discipline is loving, not punitive (Hebrews 12:11). • Document doctrinal statements so future leaders have a firm foundation. Encouragement to Congregations • Pray for and support leaders who shoulder this weighty calling (Hebrews 13:17). • Engage lovingly in member meetings; informed sheep strengthen faithful shepherds. • Remember that a church governing itself under Christ is not isolationist—it is obedient. Conclusion Acts 18:15 nudges every congregation to own its God-given responsibility. Civil courts may be useful for property lines and parking lots, but the purity, unity, and mission of the church are family matters. When leaders guard doctrine and guide disputes with Scripture as their compass, the body thrives and Christ is honored. |
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