“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;” (Eph. 4:11)
We tend as humans to look at certain aspects of life in forms of hierarchy, those in the highest positions of authority can exert more power than the baker or taxi driver, those with large sums of wealth are more influential than the beggar on the street.
But do we look at some of those levels of distinction, so to speak, in the wrong light? Is the pastor of a large church closer to the truths of the Scriptures and able to expound upon them greater than the one who leads a small congregation? Are evangelists of more value, again, so to speak, than the teacher to the Almighty?
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:13)
The position you hold in this life for the Kingdom of the Eternal Living God, do you see it as profitable, are you content with it, or do you want more?
The Roman Catholic cult, as well as the Muslim faith, have each over a billion people adhering to their false doctrines, yet they are just two of the largest “denominations” on the planet. Why is that? Here is what Satan said many centuries ago, “If you cannot join them, make them think you have.”
He has of course no desire to serve of his own free will the Living God, he has never even entertained that thought, but he will do all that he can to keep all that he can from doing so. All that is needed is the pretense of holiness, and the closer one can pretend to be towards the Almighty, the more that will follow that person, or organization.
“But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” (2nd Tim. 3:13)
An all-black apparel with a square of white at the collar, impressive attire, signifying a position of authority on that ladder of hierarchy. A robe with a sash, a fancy three-piece suit, or casual dress behind the pulpit. Can you look with your heart as the Most High does, or do you see with your eyes?
Understand and believe this truth, there are more people on this planet who profess to serve the Risen Savior than there are those who have truly been born again, by far.
It is quite easy to lead astray those who believe in that religious form of hierarchy, the pastor must always be seen as “closer to God,” more knowledgeable than any that sit in the pews, no matter their attire or the religious organizational dogmas they adhere to. Every false teacher craves that form of power, every true man of God despises it.
“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;” (Col. 1:9)
If you are blessed as a recipient of this verse, and the one standing behind the pulpit is not, what are you going to do about it?
We are told in the Scriptures, as well as taught from our youth that we are to submit to authority, it is ingrained in us. We are to do what we are told and accept our place on the ladder of hierarchy.
“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” (Matt. 7:14)
The best way to deceive someone is to make them believe that you hold some form of power over them, and those who do not study to show themselves approved, who do not seek the will of God and His truths, those “religious people,” are some of the easiest to deceive on the planet.
You know your place, but if there comes one with a different doctrine, do not fear to correct them.
“For there is no respect of persons with God.” (Romans 2:11)
