Ordinations | AGC & Discipleship Training (25th March)

Name: Ordinations | AGC & Discipleship Training (25th March)
Uploaded: 2025-06-06T14:49:50.000Z
Duration: 3 h 20 min 34 s

Ordination and Liturgy Insights

Introduction to Ordinations

The speaker introduces the topic of ordinations, indicating that it is a vast subject that cannot be covered in one session.

A follow-up session on ordinations will occur next Tuesday, focusing on the liturgy of the ordination and an upcoming ordination service.

Understanding Ordination

The speaker emphasizes the need for extensive teaching on ordination due to common misunderstandings about its significance and purpose.

An ancient prayer from 300 AD will be read, highlighting its historical context as a time when the church was young and free from schisms or doctrinal controversies.

Historical Context of Ordination

The importance of timelines is discussed; 300 AD represents a period shortly after Jesus' crucifixion, suggesting clarity in doctrine without later debates.

The prayer being referenced comes from Hippolytus, illustrating how early church practices were intended to align closely with Jesus’ teachings regarding ordination.

Key Elements of the Ordination Prayer

The prayer acknowledges God’s authority and outlines the role of ordained individuals within the church community.

It emphasizes that ordination is primarily for serving others (the flock), referencing Jesus’ command to Peter: "Do you love me? Then feed my sheep."

Sacraments and Authority in Ordination

The speaker explains that one key reason for ordination is to administer sacraments, which are vital for spiritual life within the church.

Understanding the Role of Priests in Forgiveness and Church Structure

The Power of Forgiveness and Binding

The priest holds the authority to offer forgiveness of sins, which is a sacramental duty requiring their presence.

Jesus' declaration to Peter, "On this rock, I shall build my church," emphasizes the foundational role of priests in the church's structure against evil forces.

The binding and loosing power given to priests signifies that actions taken on earth are mirrored in heaven, establishing a divine connection between earthly decisions and heavenly acknowledgment.

Challenges with Modern Doctrines

Current diluted doctrines misinterpret grace by lowering priestly standards to fit marketplace norms instead of elevating societal standards to align with spiritual expectations.

A call for reformation stresses the need for returning the priestly role back into its rightful place within society rather than adapting it to secular environments.

Ordination and Church Governance

The significance of ordination is highlighted as an act of passing on authority through prayer and laying on hands, crucial for church leadership.

1 Timothy serves as a guide for understanding church governance, focusing on qualifications for bishops and elders as outlined by Paul.

Qualifications for Church Leaders

Key qualifications include being blameless, having one wife (reflecting cultural context), temperate, sober-minded, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or greedy.

Emphasis is placed on personal conduct; leaders must manage their households well as a reflection of their capability to lead the church effectively.

Importance of Reputation Outside the Church

A leader’s reputation among non-believers is critical; they should be recognized as trustworthy individuals who uphold moral integrity.

Understanding Church Leadership and Responsibilities

Qualifications for Church Leaders

The importance of having a good reputation among outsiders is emphasized, as it prevents falling into reproach and the devil's snare.

Distinctions between the qualifications for bishops and deacons are noted; while bishops must abstain from wine, deacons may have a little more but still must not overindulge.

Timothy is identified as a bishop overseeing a large congregation (approximately 90,000), highlighting his significant leadership role.

Guidance for Ministry

Paul instructs Timothy on being a good minister by nourishing himself in faith and sound doctrine, emphasizing the importance of teaching others.

Timothy is advised to reject unwholesome teachings and focus on godliness, which holds value both in this life and the next.

Paul encourages Timothy to set an example despite his youth, urging him to demonstrate integrity in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

Spiritual Gifts and Their Transmission

The significance of spiritual gifts received through prophecy and laying on of hands is discussed; these gifts are seen as external inheritances rather than internal developments.

The concept that divine empowerment comes from outside oneself is reinforced; true spiritual authority requires impartation through established traditions like laying on of hands.

Call to Service

Emphasis is placed on the necessity of serving others selflessly to facilitate their salvation from various afflictions—spiritual or physical.

The calling described extends beyond mere spiritual salvation; it encompasses healing from emotional distress and societal issues.

Respecting Elders in Leadership

Instructions are given regarding how to treat older members within the church community with respect—older men as fathers, younger men as brothers, etc.

Understanding Church Authority and Ordination

The Role of Elders and Witnesses

The scripture emphasizes that accusations against an elder should only be accepted from two or three witnesses, highlighting the importance of accountability within church leadership.

It is crucial for leaders to address sin boldly, especially in a congregational setting, ensuring that the community remains aware and fearful of wrongdoing.

Charge Before God

Paul emphasizes the seriousness of his charge to Timothy, likening it to a legal charge made before God and Jesus Christ, underscoring the gravity of church leadership responsibilities.

Each church has its own designated angels for protection; this concept suggests a divine oversight specific to each congregation.

Understanding Church Structure

The architecture and design of churches are influenced by their patron saints and elect angels, which serve as protectors against spiritual threats.

Historical context reveals that churches were built with an understanding of spiritual warfare, where patrons like St. Patrick play significant roles in safeguarding their parishes.

Importance of Careful Ordination

Paul instructs Timothy not to lay hands on individuals hastily during ordination; this act requires careful consideration due to its significance in passing down spiritual authority.

Laying hands is described as a precious act that conveys inheritance; thus, it must be approached with reverence and caution.

Guidance on Personal Conduct

Timothy is advised not only about ordination but also about personal health—encouraged to use wine for medicinal purposes while maintaining self-control over alcohol consumption.

This advice reflects an understanding that priests can partake responsibly without succumbing to addiction or losing authority over their actions.

Historical Context on Church Governance

Understanding the Role of Bishops and Ordination in the Church

The Importance of Bishops in Sacraments

Emphasis on the necessity of bishops for valid sacraments: "Don't do anything pertaining to a church without the bishop." This highlights the hierarchical structure within the church.

Acknowledgment of Catholic traditions: The speaker engages with an audience familiar with Catholic practices, indicating a shared understanding of church roles.

Distinction Between Monks, Friars, and Priests

Clarification on roles: A monk is committed to monastic life, while a friar serves within the community. This distinction is crucial for understanding their functions within the church.

Misconceptions about ordination: Many believe that all monks and friars are ordained priests; however, this is incorrect as not all have received ordination.

The Nature of Ordination

Explanation of ordination requirements: Only those who serve a community can be ordained to give sacraments. Monks and friars may take vows but do not necessarily require ordination.

Discussion on women's roles in ordination: It is stated that women cannot be ordained as priests in Catholicism, regardless of their status or contributions within religious communities.

Hierarchy and Vows

Recognition of nuns' contributions: While high-caliber nuns exist, they are not considered ordained priests. This reinforces the established hierarchy within the church.

Differentiation between vows and ordination: Taking vows (e.g., poverty, celibacy, obedience) does not equate to being ordained. Vows signify commitment but do not grant sacramental authority.

Holiness vs. Sacredness

Exploration of holiness versus sacredness: Holiness pertains to people (e.g., nuns), while sacredness relates to objects designated by the church. This distinction clarifies misconceptions about spiritual authority.

Reflection on historical figures: Mentioning mystics like Teresa of Avila illustrates how holiness can manifest through individuals without requiring them to hold sacramental power.

Understanding the Role of Holiness in Church Leadership

The Importance of Subtlety in Communication

The speaker emphasizes a preference for subtle communication, suggesting that explicit statements can be misinterpreted.

Encourages listeners to seek divine insight through prayer, asking Jesus to open their spiritual senses.

Personal Journey and Church Establishment

Reflects on 15 years of experience in building the church, highlighting the significance of fasting and understanding church structure.

Shares a personal rule about only allowing specific holy individuals to pray for him, emphasizing the importance of holiness in those who intercede.

The Role of Vows in Spiritual Contribution

Discusses how certain individuals have taken vows (e.g., celibacy), which contribute positively to the church's spiritual reservoir.

Notes that while women have been instrumental due to their ability to take vows, some men have struggled with this commitment.

Inheritance and Lineage within the Church

Explains that taking vows contributes to a "treasury" or reservoir within the church, enhancing its spiritual wealth.

Highlights that anyone can take vows without needing ordination, thus contributing spiritually across generations.

The Consequences of Unrighteousness in Clergy

Describes laying on hands as a means of passing down inheritance; if clergy are unrighteous, nothing beneficial is transmitted.

Warns against corruption within churches due to misconduct among clergy members affecting spiritual lineage.

Narrow Path for Clergy Conduct

Stresses that clergy must adhere strictly to righteous living; any deviation leads to corruption and loss of power within the church.

Emphasizes that being part of clergy requires a narrow focus on righteousness and justice without partiality.

Blessings from Holy Leadership

Understanding the Role of Ordination and Sacramental Power

The Importance of Fasting and Spiritual Reservoirs

The speaker discusses the necessity of fasting as a means to compensate for diminishing spiritual reservoirs, emphasizing that clergy often fast during challenging times to maintain these reserves.

Reference is made to early church practices around 250 AD, highlighting how fasting was integral to maintaining spiritual authority.

Sacramental Power and Ordination

Cyprian's teachings link ordination directly with sacramental power, particularly in the context of confirmation where the Holy Spirit is conferred through imposition of hands.

Only ordained bishops or priests are authorized to confer the Holy Spirit via confirmation, underscoring the exclusivity of this sacramental power within church hierarchy.

Authority to Forgive Sins

A prayer from 250 AD requests God to grant bishops the power to forgive sins, indicating that such authority is seen as divine and not inherent in ordinary individuals.

The speaker stresses that forgiveness of sins requires a sacrificial offering (the blood), which is central to Christian doctrine regarding redemption.

The Nature of Ordained Clergy

Discussion on ordained individuals who do not take traditional holy vows but still hold significant roles within their communities, illustrating diversity in clerical responsibilities.

Examples are given of ordained priests who manage businesses while fulfilling their ecclesiastical duties without adhering strictly to poverty vows.

Supererogated Inheritance and Ritual Power

The concept of supererogated inheritance is introduced, linking it with the authority granted through ordination. This includes both ritualistic powers and responsibilities bestowed upon clergy.

The Role of the Church in Alchemizing Pain

The Church as a Collector of Suffering

The church uniquely collects pain and suffering, transforming it into blessings and prosperity for its congregation.

This process involves taking the collective suffering of saints and converting it into an inheritance of blessings that can benefit future generations.

Understanding the Treasury of Supererogation

The church maintains a "reservoir" or treasury of supererogation, which is filled with the collective suffering collected over time.

It is crucial for priests to ensure this reservoir remains healthy, protecting the anointing and overall well-being of their flock.

Responsibilities of Priests

Priests are tasked with monitoring their leaders' performance to maintain the health of the congregation; any deviation must be corrected promptly.

There is a concern about financial influences within churches where sin may go uncorrected due to monetary contributions from influential parishioners.

The Process of Forgiveness and Accountability

When sins are confessed, they are passed upward through the hierarchy until reaching Jesus, who ultimately addresses them. This system aims to purify communities by filtering out sin.

If a priest forgives sin without requiring repentance, they risk trampling on grace and failing in their duty to uphold moral standards within their congregation.

Consequences of Neglecting Sin Correction

A failure to correct serious sins can lead to illness among priests, indicating unresolved issues within their leadership or congregation. They must address these problems directly before offering forgiveness.

Humbling a Leader and the Role of Suffering

The Importance of Acknowledging Struggles

Leaders can express their struggles sincerely without needing to change their ways, allowing for grace and support from others.

Many issues within the church arise when leaders fail to address problems openly, leading to harm within the congregation.

Understanding Paul's Teachings on Suffering

In Colossians 1:24, Paul discusses rejoicing in suffering for the sake of the church, suggesting that his own afflictions contribute to Christ's work.

Paul implies that he must suffer to complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions, which may sound blasphemous but highlights a profound understanding of spiritual responsibility.

The Concept of Supererogation

The idea that additional suffering is necessary for the growth and blessing of the church emphasizes a deep connection between past sacrifices and current ministry efforts.

This concept suggests that all apostles were called to suffer as part of laying a foundation for future believers.

Legacy and Lineage in Ministry

Leaders must recognize they stand on a legacy built by previous generations' sufferings; this lineage is crucial for effective ministry.

Churches establishing missions abroad often face challenges if they do not understand or respect this lineage, leading to potential failure within three years.

Risks Associated with New Revelations

New revelations without historical context can lead leaders away from established truths, risking their ministries if they sever ties with foundational teachings.

Understanding the Death of Prophet Kobus

The Concept of Immortality and Sacrifice

Prophet Kobus was a pioneer in the concept of immortality, but his lack of understanding regarding superrogation led to his death.

He distanced himself from the fathers of Israel, which contributed to the cost he had to pay for his beliefs.

The speaker reflects on personal loss, indicating that losing spiritual leaders is a sign of being part of a real church.

Superrogation and Church Foundations

The idea that every church must undergo superrogation; without it, the church may be considered false.

A true church involves members who are willing to sacrifice and suffer for their faith, contrasting with those who seek only personal gain.

The speaker expresses willingness to pay any cost for the church's success, emphasizing the shepherd's role in this commitment.

Signs of a Real Church

Churches that endure suffering have strong foundations; their history contributes positively to current revival efforts.

Current ease in preaching and growth within the church is attributed to past sacrifices made by its leaders.

Timing and Significance of Loss

The timing of leaders' deaths is seen as significant; they occur at appointed times that add meaning to their passing.

Each saint’s life adds value to the church’s reservoir, enhancing its collective strength through shared suffering.

Inheritance and Blessings Through Suffering

When leaders pass away, their contributions are added into the church's legacy; this benefits newer members who receive blessings without having endured similar struggles.

Super Irrigation and Its Impact on the Church

Understanding Super Irrigation

The discussion begins with an invitation for questions regarding deep teachings, specifically focusing on the concept of super irrigation.

Reference is made to Pope Eugene III, indicating a shift in focus towards historical church teachings.

The Role of Sin and Holiness

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (1477) is cited, emphasizing that one person's holiness can benefit others beyond the harm caused by sin.

It is highlighted that sin affects not just the individual but also the broader church community, necessitating correction from leaders.

Addressing Sin in Leadership

Leaders are encouraged to correct deep sins within their community rather than allowing harmful behaviors to persist.

A distinction is made between superficial actions and deeper moral failings, stressing that true sin involves unjust actions against others.

Responsibilities of Clergy

Clergy members have a duty to uphold church values and address injustices they observe in others' behavior.

Emphasis is placed on maintaining a healthy church environment through accountability and support among leaders.

Vows and Their Significance

Taking personal vows (e.g., abstaining from alcohol or unhealthy habits) contributes positively to both individual health and the overall well-being of the church community.

Encouraging young people to commit to positive changes enhances their spiritual growth and adds value to the church's collective strength.

Teaching Restraint for Spiritual Growth

Teaching young couples about sexual restraint before marriage is presented as a way to strengthen their relationship and contribute positively to the church's health.

Personal stories are shared about maintaining purity before marriage, illustrating how such commitments can lead to fulfilling relationships.

Fasting as a Tool for Strengthening Faith

Fasting is recommended as an effective practice for spiritual growth; it helps individuals resist indulgence while contributing positively to communal faith.

Sharing fasting experiences with others fosters encouragement within the community without promoting boastfulness.

Building a Healthy Church Community

Engaging young people in discussions about self-control leads to healthier lifestyles, which ultimately benefits the entire congregation.

Understanding the Role of Suffering and Merit in the Church

The Significance of Personal Struggles

The speaker emphasizes that when someone claims they are not having sex, it raises a red flag for him, indicating a need for spiritual attention within the church context.

He notes that personal struggles or losses, such as death, contribute to the church's growth and understanding; he prefers members to live but acknowledges that suffering can be transformative.

Funerals vs. Weddings

The speaker expresses his reluctance to perform weddings but is willing to conduct funerals, viewing them as opportunities to absorb experiences into the church's collective wisdom.

He highlights that suffering can lead to healing and growth within the church community, reinforcing its role in transforming brokenness into strength.

Supererogatory Merit and Its Impact

The concept of supererogatory merit is introduced: saints' works exceed their own salvation needs and contribute positively to the church's treasury.

This merit allows others within the congregation to benefit spiritually from these acts beyond individual salvation efforts.

Holiness and Community Growth

The speaker encourages ongoing practices like fasting and prayer during Lent as ways to add value to the church’s treasury, which ultimately blesses everyone involved.

He asserts that a commitment to holiness leads not only to individual blessings but also fosters communal revival and growth within the church.

Contributions Beyond Monetary Indulgences

Leaders are urged to actively contribute towards building up the church’s treasury through spiritual practices rather than just financial means.

Indulgence is redefined beyond monetary contributions; it includes prayers and fasting as essential elements contributing positively toward communal spirituality.

Practical Application of Spiritual Guidance

The speaker critiques how some confessional practices may overlook deeper contributions needed for true spiritual growth; mere absolution isn't sufficient without actionable steps like prayer or fasting.

Understanding Indulgences and Ordination in the Church

The Concept of Indulgences

The speaker discusses the historical context of indulgences, emphasizing that they were initially intended to alleviate suffering but became a means for the church to gain financial support.

The corruption within the church is highlighted, where indulgences transform from personal spiritual relief into a source of income for the institution.

Role of Christ and Saints

A key theological point is made: one man's sin can lead to destruction, while Christ's satisfaction can save many. Saints contribute to the sanctity of the church through their participation in suffering.

Significance of Ordination

Ordained individuals inherit all indulgences and possess unique powers such as forgiveness of sins, which positions them as vital community leaders with a different perspective on life.

The ordination process is described as transformative; ordained individuals carry centuries of tradition and authority, enabling them to pass blessings onto others.

Living Worthy of Ordination

The speaker emphasizes that those seeking ordination should live a life worthy of their calling, which may involve periods of fasting or sacrifice to contribute meaningfully to the church's treasury.

Accessing Spiritual Resources

Questions arise about accessing spiritual resources like communion and how individual suffering contributes to the collective benefit within the church community.

Communion is explained as access to priestly blessings, linking participants directly to the lineage and traditions passed down through generations.

Importance of Community in Suffering

It’s stressed that individual suffering outside the church lacks purpose unless it contributes to communal growth; being part of a congregation allows personal struggles to benefit others.

Historical examples are provided (e.g., St. Clare and St. Francis), illustrating how vows taken by saints added value to the church through their sacrifices.

Understanding the Role of Poverty Vows in Church Community

The Importance of Vows of Poverty

Discussion on whether power contributes to a church and the necessity of establishing a church body with members who take vows of poverty.

Explanation that a vow of poverty signifies total commitment to serving God, regardless of personal wealth or success.

Emphasis on the presence of individuals within the church community who have taken such vows, highlighting their importance for a healthy church environment.

Valuing Contributions from Different Callings

Recognition that not everyone is called to take vows; some are meant to be businesspeople and contribute differently, thus valuing diverse roles within the church.

Personal reflection on treating those who have taken vows as holy figures, akin to meeting Jesus, which fosters respect and appreciation for their sacrifices.

Confession and Its Complexities in Religious Context

The Sacred Nature of Confession

Acknowledgment that confession is considered sacred and cannot be revealed even if it involves criminal activity, presenting challenges for clergy.

Discussion about perceptions of corruption within the Catholic Church linked to its adherence to sacred oaths regarding confession.

Differences Among Denominations

Contrast between Catholic practices and Anglican adaptations concerning confessions involving crimes; Anglicans allow bishops to discuss serious matters while maintaining confidentiality.

Clarification that even in urgent situations (e.g., potential harm), Catholic priests cannot disclose confessions due to their commitment to confidentiality.

Challenges Within Church Communities: Case Study

Issues Arising from Financial Transactions

Warning against conducting business among congregants due to potential conflicts; sharing an anecdote about a new member's financial misconduct.

Description of a young woman’s admission about her unethical financial behavior upon joining the congregation, illustrating trust issues within community dynamics.

Consequences of Confidentiality

Reflection on how confidentiality agreements can complicate accountability when members engage in harmful behaviors without transparency.

The Importance of Accountability in Church Communities

The Consequences of Lack of Transparency

Within church communities, failing to disclose actions to leadership can lead to negative outcomes, particularly concerning financial matters.

A story is shared about a man who repented while in prison after watching the speaker's YouTube content, highlighting the transformative power of faith.

Redemption and Support

The speaker recounts a personal interaction with the repentant individual, emphasizing the importance of prayer and support for those seeking redemption.

After six months post-repentance, the individual was released from prison and sought community support upon arrival in Sri Lanka.

Navigating Challenges within Community

The speaker expresses concern over integrating someone with a troubled past into a community with children, illustrating the complexities faced by leaders.

Questions are raised regarding ongoing struggles with addiction and how to provide appropriate support without compromising safety.

Communication and Trust Among Leaders

Emphasizing transparency among church leaders is crucial; sharing concerns about individuals helps protect the community.

Leaders are encouraged to communicate serious issues without disclosing sensitive details, fostering an environment of trust.

Understanding Forgiveness and Responsibility

The discussion shifts towards understanding forgiveness within a religious context; it’s not merely emotional but involves significant spiritual responsibility.

Forgiveness and the Role of Christ

The Nature of Forgiveness

The speaker discusses the concept of forgiveness, emphasizing that while anyone can forgive sins emotionally, true forgiveness comes through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice.

Reference to Hebrews highlights that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin, underscoring the importance of Christ's sacrifice in Christian theology.

Authority and Roles in Spiritual Context

The speaker illustrates different roles individuals can take on within a spiritual context, comparing them to various professions (e.g., priest, architect).

Emphasizes the desire to embody the role associated with instituting communion, indicating a deeper spiritual responsibility.

Questions on Super Irrigation and Praying for the Dead

A two-part question arises regarding super irrigation—whether it pertains to souls belonging to a church community—and praying for or to the dead.

Clarification that they do not separate from traditions of Roman Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy; instead, they honor these traditions as part of their broader faith experience.

Interconnectedness with Other Traditions

The speaker expresses gratitude for receiving blessings from various Christian denominations (Anglicans, Methodists), highlighting an inclusive approach towards different faith practices.

While acknowledging belief in praying for the dead, he clarifies that this practice will not be made into doctrine; however, he does maintain relationships with saints.

Closing Reflections and Prayer

The session concludes with a prayer asking for wisdom and understanding regarding discussed topics.