Ministers in the Church
The sermon emphasizes the importance of scriptural basis and qualifications for church leaders, highlighting the apostolic appointment and the role of bishops and deacons.
Clement of Rome emphasizes the orderly appointment of the apostles by Christ and their subsequent preaching of the Gospel, following the will of God. He highlights the assurance received through the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, leading them to proclaim the imminent kingdom of God. The apostles, guided by the Spirit, established bishops and deacons among the believers, a practice rooted in Scripture and foretold in ancient times.
Text
The apostles have preached the Gospel to us from the Lord Jesus Christ; Jesus Christ [has done sol from God. Christ therefore was sent forth by God, and the apostles by Christ. Both these appointments, then, were made in an orderly way, according to the will of God. Having therefore received their orders, and being fully assured by the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, and established in the word of God, with full assurance of the Holy Ghost, they went forth proclaiming that the kingdom of God was at hand.
And thus preaching through countries and cities, they appointed the first-fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons of those who should afterwards believe.
Nor was this any new thing, since indeed many ages before it was written concerning bishops and deacons. For thus says the Scripture a certain place, "I will appoint their bishops s in righteousness, and their deacons in faith."
Sermon Outline
- The Appointment of the Apostles
- The Qualifications of Church Leaders
- The Scriptural Basis for Church Leadership
- Scripture foretold the appointment of bishops and deacons
- Scripture emphasizes the importance of righteousness and faith in leaders
- Leaders were appointed to serve the church
Key Quotes
“Christ therefore was sent forth by God, and the apostles by Christ.” — Clement of Rome
“And thus preaching through countries and cities, they appointed the first-fruits of their labours, having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons of those who should afterwards believe.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- Church leaders should be appointed in an orderly way according to God's will.
- Church leaders should be qualified by being proved by the Spirit and having full assurance of the Holy Ghost.
- Church leaders should serve the church and lead its members with righteousness and faith.