Biblical Reference for Stewards As Church Officersgreenspun.com : LUSENET : A.M.E. Today Discussion : One Thread |
I have always been intrigued by the title of "stewards" in our AME churches. The term as used in the Bible doesn't imply some type of ecclesiastic office but instead a more generic term for all believers. The New Testament makes it clear that all beleivers should be stewards. Christ communicates this message in several of His parables. Now in contrast the Holy Writ does use the term "deacon" as an official chucrch officer title. The story in the Book of Acts provides unambiguous language "seek ye out 7 men full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom......" Note also that original language is gender-specific concerning this office. It has been my observation that "stewards" in AME churches are analogous to "deacons" from my Baptist upbringing. I once asked a prominent member of my church [steward] where is the Scriptural support for his officer title and he honestly could not provide me with a satisfactory reply. So, now I ask this august community of faith, where is the Biblical reference for church stewards as official officers?
-- Anonymous, December 15, 2000
The word steward is used in its basic meaning of caretaker. The office of deacon is analogous and may also be used as a synonymn. There is no specific biblical reference for the term. Although there are translations of the bible that use the word steward parenthatically along with the word deacon. Hope this provides you with some clarity.
-- Anonymous, December 15, 2000
There is no need for a bibical reference for any of the titles that we use in the AME Church or any church for that matter. While we are concerned with the orgin of titles, we could miss the true meaning of God. The FUNCTION is more important than the TITLE and should be where the emphasis is placed. The function of the AME Steward can be found in the Bible. Blessings Pastor Paris, Whoops! Is pastor in the bible?
-- Anonymous, December 15, 2000
For further enlightment check out the manual, "Equipping The Saints For Service" by Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram. B.K. Williams
-- Anonymous, January 04, 2001