The Un-Gracious Assumption

JC Ryle put forward that when it came to the fellowship of believers, the church, and the administration of the sacraments (baptism and Lord’s supper), it was up to the minister to explain the reality of the act, then allow the person who was willing, to partake of the act, despite any personal reservations the minister may have – he called it the gracious assumption.

Now there is a lot more to it than just that, but it seems to me that there is great wisdom in that idea, (given that none of us are the judge of all men, nor do we see anyone’s hearts, ultimately it is an issue between God and the person) when it comes to a person’s standing before God.

But on the other hand when it comes to leadership in the church (any leadership or up front role) I think we really need to make an Un-gracious assumption, that people need to show real evidence of conversion before we let them run anything – finances, music the lot – much less teach!!

Anyway, I’ll probably tweak this view a few times, but I think what I mean is Leaders need to be, in order;

1. Converted -Evidence of genuine conversion
2. Committed - Actively participate in the life of the church ie. At church at least once a week and involved in mid week Bible study (not on the fringe)
3. Serving - Actively pursuing ministry – Bible study leading, youth group, evangelism (not a consumer Christian!)
4. Leading - Then you can talk about them being involved in the leadership of the church.