Here is a truth that should be learned:
The churches, all which Paul confirmed,
Were singular, in his address;
And this was neither more, nor less
Than God designed for us to see,
And this design will set us free.
The plural term was for Galatia,
Similarly, those in Asia.
In one city, the church is one.
Where, then, has this pattern gone?
Denominations do abound
And bury freedom in the ground.
Against this truth they all protest,
Dividing "their" flock from the rest.
But "feed MY sheep" was Jesus' word.
To call them yours is quite absurd!
The pastors who devour the flock
Will soon be smitten by the Rock!
Elders, plural, is the rule.
Who rules alone becomes a fool.
And all of us do court disaster
Giving power to a pastor.
Now this should not come as a shock,
A group of elders feed the flock.
City-wide they oversee,
Serving well both you and me.
Ah! But! this is not true in fact.
How then, dear brother can I act?
God's plan is plain as plain can be,
But where is the reality?
Friend, we see this only when
The church of God begins again
To walk by our dear Lord's design,
And all the rest just falls in line.
Cunning imitations forged
Have never yet God's truth disgorged.
To self-promote and self-appoint
Does put this Body out of joint.
Denominations do apply
A tourniquet until we die
Through lack of blood and lack of love,
Oh! turn, with me, to him above,
And let the virgin bride of Christ
Respond to his great sacrifice!
H.K.Pywell
22.2.1992