What if the Church comprised a massive collection of house churches? As I write the final chapter of my book, this is the question rolling around in my mind. Here's how I've landed on such a radical question:
First, I've looked at the life and ministry of Jesus and his disciples. My theory is that Jesus and his band of followers did not abandon their crafts and vocations but they continued to work as they preached the Kingdom.
Second, I've examined the social context of the New Testament. From voluntary associations to households managed by well-to-do people, the early church assembled in homes. While this wasn't the only context, it was a significant one.
Third, I've explored Paul's teachings for glimpses and clues for how pastors and leaders were paid. After my deep dive I've come to this conclusion: Paul does not seem to endorse a system where church leaders get paid.
Fourth, I've investigated post-apostolic texts and the world of the early centuries. The idea of paying a pastor appears long after Paul, mid-way through the third century. It shows up in the writings of St. Cyprian of Carthage. He appeals to the Old Testament to argue for a priestly paradigm of ministry where church leaders assume a role similar to levitical priests. While this idea takes time to catch on, Constantine the Great's political reforms make this a favourable paradigm for the church.
So, what if the North American church returned to an ancient model? Could you imagine a modern Canadian or American context where churches were smaller and pastoral expectations less, enabling its team (not one pastor, but many) of leaders to work for pay outside the church?
