Whom did Calvinists believe should control the church? This question delves into the heart of Calvinist theology and the structure of the church during the Reformation period. Calvinists, followers of the teachings of John Calvin, held strong opinions on church governance and the role of authority within the church. Understanding their views on this matter is crucial for comprehending the historical and theological context of Calvinism.
The Calvinist perspective on church control was deeply rooted in their belief in the sovereignty of God and the authority of Scripture. They argued that the church should be governed by elders, who were chosen by God and appointed to lead the congregation. These elders were to be spiritually mature, knowledgeable in the Word of God, and capable of teaching and governing the flock.
Calvinists believed that the ultimate authority within the church should rest with the elders, rather than with the congregation or a single pastor. This belief was grounded in the New Testament, where Paul instructed Timothy to appoint elders in every church (1 Timothy 3:1-7). The elders were seen as the spiritual leaders of the church, responsible for overseeing the teaching, discipline, and spiritual growth of the congregation.
One of the key reasons Calvinists emphasized the role of elders was their desire to maintain purity within the church. They believed that the church should be a holy institution, separate from the world, and that elders were necessary to ensure that the church remained faithful to the teachings of Scripture. By entrusting the church’s governance to elders, Calvinists sought to prevent the corruption and apostasy that they believed had plagued the Catholic Church.
Another important aspect of Calvinist church governance was the concept of church discipline. Calvinists believed that elders had the responsibility to enforce discipline within the church, including excommunication for those who persisted in sin. This strict discipline was intended to protect the purity of the church and to encourage believers to live holy lives.
Despite their emphasis on elder-led governance, Calvinists did not reject the role of the congregation entirely. They believed that the congregation had a voice in church affairs and that elders should seek the input and wisdom of the congregation when making decisions. However, the ultimate authority remained with the elders, who were to act as stewards of God’s Word and the church’s spiritual well-being.
In conclusion, Calvinists believed that the church should be controlled by elders, who were chosen by God and appointed to lead the congregation. This belief was rooted in their understanding of the New Testament and their desire to maintain the purity and holiness of the church. While the congregation had a voice in church governance, the elders held the ultimate authority, ensuring that the church remained faithful to the teachings of Scripture and the principles of Calvinist theology. Understanding this aspect of Calvinist church governance is essential for appreciating the historical and theological context of this influential movement within Christianity.
