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By Gary Ray Branscome
Because the lust for self-exaltation is deeply rooted in
our sinful nature, you are going to encounter men who want to make Christ’s
kingdom into their kingdom. The Apostle Paul referred to that desire for
self-exaltation as the “mystery of iniquity,” and it leads some to portray
the “office of the ministry” as a spiritual estate that entitles all who hold
it to special reverence – as if being ordained places them in a class by
themselves, or gives them a higher rank than other Christians (2Thessalonians
2:7). However, that is clearly contrary to what the Bible plainly says.
The words, “Notice those who labor among you… And
because of their work hold them in the highest regard in love,” tell us to
show love to those who “labor among” us, “because of their work,” not because
of their rank or position (1Thessalonians
Although men may anoint with oil, every believer has been
anointed with the Holy Spirit of God. As it is written, “Did you receive the
Holy Spirit when you came to faith?” (Acts 19:2) And, again, “Did you
receive the Holy Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?”
(Galatians 3:2) And, because you were anointed with the Holy Spirit when you
came to faith in Christ, “The anointing that you have received from Him
remains in you,” making all believers “A royal priesthood, a holy
nation, a people valued by God” (1John 2:27, 1Peter 2:9).
Therefore, even though we should be willing to, “Listen
to those who lead the congregation, and follow their guidance,” (Hebrews