by David Newby

For the purpose of illustration, we will use the pyramid to represent organisational hierarchy. In this instance, it refers to the ecclesiastical hierarchy that quickly developed in the first one hundred years of the post-apostolic period, paving the way for what became the catholic church in the fourth and fifth centuries AD.

In spite of the beliefs of the Reformers, changing from the old power-based leadership and organisational structures was too big an idol for them to topple, so these are still part of our “normal” church life and experience.

God had wanted ALL of Israel to be a nation of priests - to serve in His presence. Israel was to be the vehicle of salvation to the nations around them as well.