thistle93
Puritan Board Freshman
Hi! I have recently heard and read a few people say that when is says in Matthew 18:17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won't accept the church's decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector. (ESV) it is not referring to the whole church body but rather just the elders. The word used is ekklesia. In my understanding this is the whole corporate body not just the leadership of the church. Can someone tell me anywhere else in the Bible where ekklesia refers exclusively to the leadership of the church and not the general church body? I hate to say it but this interpretation seems to be a case where church tradition is driving exegesis. By the way, while I believe in a form of congregationalism on general church matters I do believe in the plurality of elders leading the church, even at times when majority disagree with decision of elders but I just do not see this verse referring exclusively to elders. Thoughts?
For His Glory-
Matthew
For His Glory-
Matthew