Reformed Forum The Structure of Church Government, Part 2 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 7)
Jan 12, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Dr. James Cassidy, a Reformed theologian and instructor at Reformed Academy, delves into essential topics regarding church governance. He tackles the contentious issue of gender roles in church offices, citing biblical texts like 1 Timothy 2. Furthermore, Cassidy explores the concept of the Connected Church, highlighting the importance of accountability among congregations. He emphasizes the limited jurisdiction of the church, the significance of preaching, and the regulative principle of worship, all crucial for preserving doctrinal truth and church order.
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Male-Only Special Offices
- James Cassidy argues that special church offices are restricted to men based on Scripture, not cultural norms.
- He grounds this restriction in the creation order and the fall as explained in 1 Timothy 2:12–14.
Limit The Scope Of The Prohibition
- Do not conflate Paul's prohibition with a blanket ban on all female teaching roles outside authoritative church office.
- Restrict the prohibition to authoritative teaching within the church and not to teaching women or children elsewhere.
Phoebe And The Deaconess Debate
- The Phoebe passage (Romans 16:1) is debated: she may be a noted servant rather than a deaconess.
- Those opposing female deacons stress Acts 6 authority and 1 Timothy 3 qualifications as male-only.
