The reality is simply that a pastor-less church, where everyone functions out of their co-operative giftedness is a pipe dream for armchair critics. I?m wording this strongly intentionally, because the reality of the Body is that NOT EVERYONE IS MATURE enough to function that way.

People come to gatherings who are damaged, demanding, in need of healing, counselling, etc. Those who ARE mature will hopefully be functioning in their giftedness and be a huge resource to these needy people, but the Body just isn?t that ?uniform? in its spiritual, emotional or mental depth.

The only way you can have a completely egalitarian gathering is either (1) on paper, or (2) in a very small, exclusive group of like-minded friends who do not accept new group members who are different than them, or who have deep needs.

The pastor(s), whether they are paid or not, will always have their hands full with needy people, and (if they?re at all humble and servant-hearted) will gladly welcome a team of co-labourers around them.

–Posted as a comment by Robbymac