While the chapels may be filled with lovers of the world who claim to be lovers of God, the divine Church of God is composed of those who are sold out for God and devoted to Christ and His cause above all else. As spiritual pilgrims on earth, God’s children still need jobs to work, schools to attend, houses in which to live, and money with which to buy things. However, they seek not the earthly treasures of this world but seek rather to please God daily with their affections, time, energy, and earthly possessions.
While there are many spiritual gifts, the offices of the bishop and of the deacon are the two official offices that exist in the biblically defined New Testament church for leadership and operation under the authority of the Holy Spirit (1 Timothy 3:1, 8).
The office of the bishop is synonymous in scripture with that of the elder and is a term to denote the called and qualified preachers of the Word of God. There are many proofs that bishops and elders were the same, and it was not until the apostasy of the Roman Catholic Church that a distinction was created.
There are multiple, important purposes for the ordination of ministers in the Church of God which should be valued accordingly and never undermined because of personal agendas, philosophies, or prejudices.
Confirmation of Something Spiritual
According to scriptural teaching, there is something spiritual conveyed in the act of ministerial ordination. Paul referred to ordination when he instructed Timothy: “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery” (1 Timothy 4:14). The study of this verse conveys much truth about the practice of ordination.Read more
Prayer is a reflection of the relationship we have with God. It is a wonderful privilege to enter into the presence of God and communicate with Him at any time, any place, and in any situation. Prayer is not only a time of asking for something but a time of worship and spiritual renewal.
Instructed by Christ
Jesus instructed that “men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). This is repeatedly reinforced in the scripture: “Continue in prayer, and watch” (Colossians 4:2). It is God’s desire to have a close, personal relationship with mankind. A fulfilling relationship takes time and nurturing, and prayer is that avenue by which people can become connected with God. Without communication, there will not be much of a relationship. God wants us to daily walk with Him as did Enoch. Jesus entreated His disciples to abide in Him as a branch is connected to the vine. Prayer is a major source of abiding in Christ, partaking of His nature and bearing spiritual fruit. James 4:8 says, “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you.”Read more
