How did the hierarchy type of leadership enter into the church?

Question

I see many christians also living under the old covenant and bound by the law

Answer 1

If you are catholic than it was all ordained by God... but seriously people just wanted to feel important so they gave themselves titles...

Answer 2

As the early church began to grow, there was not enough leadership. So an older more experienced pastor would oversee younger leaders or pastors in churches close by. These overseers became known as bishops. The church at Rome grew very rapidly and had as many as 40 congregations by the end of the first century. The bishop of the church at Rome was looked upon as a special leader because he oversaw so many churches. Over time politics began to creep into the church, and by the 300's the bishop of Rome was the supreme Bishop.
Legalism is a serious problem in some conservative churches today.

Answer 3

I see by your questions you are obviously a newbie Christian. I'm glad you're very interested, and will be happy to email and chat with you.

However, I will also note that Saul, aka the Apostle Paul, went into the wilderness for three years to learn about Christianity before he tried to teach the faith. Obviously the 11 surviving Disciples had three years with Jesus to learn the faith. Perhaps you should take their example, and spend a few years with learned church leaders learning about Christianity before trying to teach?

I've answered your "hierarchy" question on your other post.

And, "bound by the law" is interesting -- what are the rules for Christians? And, what should happen to them if they don't follow those rule? Are you saying that Christians can do anything that they want to do?

I await your response.

Answer 4

It was an extension of two things: (a) the male dominated culture of that time, and, (b) the making of Christianity into the imperial religion in the 4th century. Once it had power, the church began to become more and more of a male hierarchy. Women, who had been among the first apostles and teachers, were shoved aside and the celibate male clergy took over. This was a great tragedy for Christianity and its effects are still being felt as we see how patriarchal religions become violent and aggressive (both Islam and Christianity).

Answer 5

There has always been a heirarchy in any society based on wealth and power. The church is no different (it's not what jesus wanted though). The church has always conspired to maintain power within the wider community through keeping people uneducated and docile, the opiate of the masses.

Answer 6

I don't know what your talking about. Only in the Catholic faith is there an old line of leaders. The Mormons have a leader but they are of the newer age cults.

Answer 7

Read Acts and the Epistles.