Beloved, in conclusion of this series, “The Business of Administration of the Church” - in the times following the visitation of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, there were no established local churches. The apostles preached in the “temples” and synagogues, etc. There were no bishops, pastors or deacons. Remember, we are talking about the infancy of the church. At that time, no plan of business had been set forth by the apostles - their ministry was entirely evangelical. It is recorded that the saints, of their own accord, sold their possessions and brought the money to the apostles to distribute as every man had need (see Acts 2:44-46). Beloved, this was not the center of God’s divine will. His will has always been for His leaders to have a vision or strategy for the execution of church administration. At first, the apostles, in their zeal for souls, failed to teach the saints about business. Later, they learned a valuable lesson that they never forgot!
Precious Ones, after Peter had to pronounce death on two saints (Ananias and Sapphira) because of their dishonesty in the business affairs of the church (see Acts 5), the practice of leaving business affairs in the hands of the saints was discontinued. From that time, the Holy Spirit moved on the apostles to establish, within the local church, bishops, pastors and deacons to oversee church administrative affairs. The system of tithes and offerings was re-instituted in order to support the established churches. Local pastors were responsible for teaching the Word to the saints. The church welcomed the wisdom in the teaching of the apostle Paul, and his epistles were written to regulate the conduct of the various churches.
Chosen Ones, in conclusion of this series - today, when a local church is established, that church must follow in the vision of the local pastor. Remember, “where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 28:18). Beloved, when things are done according to God’s plan and direction for good business procedure, the church will certainly prosper.
I love you all SO very much!
In His Love,
Pastor William L. McCoy
