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Handout #43 |
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Itinerant ministers and ministers of local communities |
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| The
apostles, prophets and teachers mentioned in this passage are to be
understood as those in I Cor. 12.28f. This text could be very close
to the apostolic period.
Now about the apostles and prophets: Act in line with the gospel precept. Welcome every apostle on arriving as if he were the Lord. But he must not stay beyond one day. In case of necessity, however, the next day too. If he stays three days, he is a false prophet. On departing an apostle must not accept anything but sufficient food to carry him till his next lodging. If he asks for money, he is a false prophet ... Every genuine prophet who wants to settle with you has a right to his support (Matt. 10. 10). Similarly, a genuine teacher himself, just like a workman has a right to his support...You must choose for yourselves overseers and deacons who are worthy of the Lord: men who are gentle, generous, faithful, and well tried. For their ministry to you is identical with that of the prophets and teachers. You must not therefore, despise them, for along with the prophets and teachers they enjoy a place of honor among you. Didache 11, 13, 15. |
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