The many problems facing the Lord’s church today are the result of men refusing to accept Christ as supreme authority in all matters concerning the church and it’s work. Jesus said, “All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18). Since Jesus has all authority, this leaves none for any man or group of men. The word “Authority,” is from KATEXOUSIAZO, “to exercise authority, to wield power over one.” (Thayer). 

There are those within the church of our Lord that are no longer content with the all-sufficiency of the church or the word of God. They are determined to have and support human institutions, despite all we can do or say. And worse than this, to my way of thinking, is the fact that they will make this a test of fellowship, and thus destroy our unity in Christ. They make a mockery of Jesus’ prayer for unity (John 17:20-21) and of the apostle Paul’s pleas for unity (1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 4:1-6). This is a sin in itself. 

The fact is, God never authorized such human institutions (or Para-church organizations), and those that support such will have to answer to Him. Nevertheless, it is our duty to uphold the truth and endeavor to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. 

Brethren, let us remember the words of Jeremiah, the prophet of old, “Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6:16).

This is the first article I ever wrote for TRUTH MAGAZINE in October 1963. (Larry)