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The funny thing about James at the council, in the way I read it, and contrary to many Pastors' interpretations, is that Peter gives the authoritative teaching, and Paul and Barnabas back that teaching up through examples. Then James, known as one of the strongest defenders of the Jewish nation and people, threw his weight behind Peter. The symbolism here is that, if even the most observant Jew who followed Christ can agree that the laws of the old covenant have been superceded, then on what grounds can such laws stand? Thus, it was Peter who gave the authoritative teaching, and James lent his learned opinion and weight to that teaching.

I see a family of brothers and sisters in the household of God. Some are elder brothers, but they don’t run the house- God alone does that. So by the absence of special leaders, we all become special leaders.

I agree we are all one family in Christ - too often that is forgotten on these threads. However, while, yes, God is the head of house, He isn't home right now, so to speak. As such, the "eldest brothers" need to step up and wear the mantle of "man of the house." I don't believe that when Christ left this Earth He left His house in such arrears, without any authority.

As for the ‘true leadership’ vs. ‘leadership class’ question, if the character already exists, why does there have to be an outward indication of one’s status then? Why the robes, the titles, the special places in the rituals? If the character is there, that’s enough for me.

This is a loaded question, as is the comment about the architechure, and it gets to the heart of all Sacramental Theology. If you want, I can try to get into that can o' worms, but it may be best to save it for another thread.

Yeah, nevermind the architecture. lol

However, while, yes, God is the head of house, He isn't home right now, so to speak.

I have to disagree. The Holy Spirit is with us- and this point goes to the center of our debate.

Christ was rejected and murdered because He represented a challenge to the present religious ruling class, who were grasping their influential and profitable place in the lives of God's people at all costs.

Today, the Holy Spirit is rejected for much the same reason.