Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

we place our stamp of approval upon it? Under what conditions ought we to continue with an initiative even if the so-called legitimate authority rejects the idea out of hand?

We Decline to Participate

There are many churches which fail to participate in any local, regional, or national initiatives by other Christians. Arguing that they are not obligated to march to the drum beat of any other church or organization, some congregations believe deeply in the Holy Spirit’s guidance of the leadership within and only within the church as an authoritative voice for directing their affairs. Under what circumstances or situations might it be appropriate for a local church to not participate in the activities and emphases of fellow congregations in the area? Is it possible to be a legitimate church and refuse to participate in any other activities sponsored by other churches in an area ? Can a church decline to participate in all forms of connection and supervision of its affairs by any outside institution or group? Many urban churches are becoming clearer on the necessity for their fellowships to become connected to other traditions and integrated into the life of the church at the locale, regional, and national, even international level. However, many traditions demand so much in terms of doctrine, governance, leadership, funding, and other areas that many urban churches would be refused membership within them. Some denominations are neither welcoming to urban congregations, nor capable of integrating them within the life and ministry of the denomination. Some traditions are not diverse, either in terms of fiscal difference (e.g., most of the congregations are wealthy), ethnic diversity, or cultural distinction. If an urban church senses the need to become linked to a larger network of assemblies, how would you propose they go about it–what steps ought they to take in establishing relationships and connections with other churches, or with another like-minded tradition? How Do I Join?

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The Self-Appointed Bishop

In many of the more public and prominent ministries headed by likeable and persuasive televangelists and preachers today, the title of “bishop” is one of the more