Serving Freely In An Egalitarian Church In Denver

By Rosella Campbell


Christians who hold to the example set by Jesus Christ generally want every aspect of their daily lives to be based on His teachings. Sometimes this is in stark contrast to what is popular in culture. For example, while people all around them may be busily trying to steal from their workplace, they have to avoid such behaviors. Those who are part of an egalitarian church in Denver aim to live out the teachings of Christ at work and everywhere else.

Hierarchy really has no place in the body of Christ. Unfortunately, because popular culture preys on the need for human beings to exalt themselves above others, Christians sometimes forget that. They may subdue or suffocate others who have gifts that can build others, simply because they want pride of place for themselves.

Gifts are allocated within the body for the edification of everyone in it. The Holy Spirit gives these to men and women, rich and poor people, regardless of their age or their race. Egalitarianism emphasizes equality according to the Bible so that everyone may use the gifts that they have been freely given without artificial limitations that are determined by their gender, class or race.

Churches that are called to serve in communities must follow the example set by the Savior. Jesus went out of His way to treat everyone equally. While He is Lord of all, He never held down anyone or put them aside because they were from a different cultural group or gender. He encouraged others to fully live out their calling.

Jesus specifically pointed out that high officials should not lord it over or exercise authority over those in their care. That is in direct contrast to the general attitude of the world, where people command and force others to follow and may even use put downs to achieve their aims. In the body, everyone is to have a servant attitude and regard others as sisters and brothers first.

The push to reserve certain positions in the home and in the body for people who are rich or belong to a particular gender sometimes is accompanied by a misconception of what it means to lead. There are occasions when the leader seems to do exactly what Jesus says Christians should not do. They lord it over others, instead of seeking to lead by serving.

Jesus clearly stated that a person who wants to be great should serve. Jesus was the ultimate example, giving up His life so we all might live forever. Yet, there are many leaders who are unwilling to even shift in an opinion that in their hearts they know is wrong. Fully utilizing gifts and ministries helps churches to function as Jesus wants.

Unique features of individuals can be used by God to glorify His name. Egalitarian churches recognize that no person is limited by their class, age, gender or any other factor. All that we have the power to accomplish is through God because it is in Him that we live, move and have our being. They embrace the equality of all people in Jesus.




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