Classes of Believers

Dr. Couch, is not 1 Peter 4:11 speaking about two classes of believers in the church, or two levels of workers in the congregation? ANSWER:  Yes, that seems to be what is happening here. There are not different levels of rewards being mentioned but of work taking place in the assembly. This is a great passage of Scripture that reads: "Whoever speaks, let him speak, as it were, the utterance of God; whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."    First are those "who speak" or teach "the utterances of God." This would include the speakers, the elders and/or pastors. Then there are those who serve "by the strength which God supplies," so "that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ."    Some have great abilities in teaching and others in serving in the assembly. This makes for a perfect balance of believers. Both classes are carrying out what the Lord wishes to take place. You need workers and you need those who give biblical instruction and direction from God's Word.    Thank for asking.    Dr. Mal Couch (Apr., 10)