Governance and�Personal Guidance

Living as a People of God Session 3

Missionary Families of Christ

We saw God’s call to function as a body, and the role of seniors and other leaders.

1. Without authority, there would be a lack of direction and even chaos.
2. Without submission, there can be no effective authority.

Missionary Families of Christ

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NATURE OF AUTHORITY AND SUBMISSION

1. This arises out of the nature of our commitment in MFC.
2. Authority and submission are aspects of a relationship.

Missionary Families of Christ

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GUIDANCE ONE CAN EXPECT FROM LEADERSHIP IN MFC

• Overall governmental authority in MFC belongs to the Servant General.
• Leaders lead and care for the body and its members.
• Personal guidance is given in areas concerning a member’s participation in the life of MFC.
• Leaders do not direct the personal lives of members, i.e., areas of life not directly related to their commitment in MFC.

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Missionary Families of Christ

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SUBMISSION

• Members should receive guidance willingly and submissively
• The Bible urges a relationship of trust and full cooperation.
• Submission is not passive but active.
• Submission to authority is based on obedience to and love for the Lord.
• If your judgment seriously differs from the leader, and especially if you think harm to the body would result, you can appeal a decision or directive.

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Missionary Families of Christ

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FRUITS OF SUBMISSION

• Allows individuals to receive wisdom, confidence and protection.
• Prevents power struggles and conflicts, thus bringing peace and unity.
• Strengthens the body.
• Frees the body to serve the Lord effectively.
• Fosters greater love among the brethren.
• Removes hindrances that may prevent the power of God to work in the body.

Missionary Families of Christ

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Guidance and submission in MFC should always function within the context of a loving relationship.

For us to live as a people of god and to function as a body, there is a need for authority and submission.

Missionary Families of Christ

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