Doctrine Matters with Kevin DeYoung Who Governs the Church?
Dec 2, 2025
Dive into the intriguing debate about church governance and authority. Explore the Roman Catholic claim of papal supremacy and the critiques against it. Learn about episcopalian polity and the roles of bishops, alongside arguments for the shared functions of New Testament elders. Discover congregationalism, where the congregation wields power, and the Presbyterian perspective that champions regional authority. Kevin DeYoung provides a compelling analysis of these differing views, highlighting the complexities and implications for church leadership.
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Polity Determines Where The Buck Stops
- Church polity answers who has Christ-given authority to exercise power within the church.
- Kevin DeYoung frames four historical systems and argues polity is theologically and practically important.
Papal Supremacy Faces Scriptural Challenges
- Roman Catholic claims papal succession from Peter lack convincing historical and scriptural support.
- DeYoung argues Matthew 16 and other passages better fit corporate or Christ-centered readings than a unique Petrine supremacy.
Bishop Role Not Clearly Distinct In NT
- Episcopalian polity centers bishops with unique ordination and jurisdiction powers.
- DeYoung contends New Testament terms for elders and overseers are used interchangeably and don't clearly establish a separate episcopal order.
