1 Corinthians 14:40 “Let all things be done decently and in order.”

ABSTRACT

This article explores the profound significance of structured harmony within God’s community, drawing from biblical principles and inspired insights to reveal how such organization fosters spiritual strength, collective purpose, and effective witness in a chaotic world. As (KJV) aptly summarizes,

ORDER’S MIGHTY MARVEL!

Have you ever paused to consider the sheer magnitude of God’s meticulous nature? From the vast cosmos to the intricate designs of a single cell, order reigns supreme in His creation. It is no surprise then, that this divine principle extends to His church, the very beacon of truth in a world shrouded in chaos. This essay will delve into the biblical foundation of church organization. We will trace its origins, explore its purpose, and ultimately, understand its profound necessity for unity and the preservation of our cherished faith. Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery, as we unpack the divine blueprint for church order, a plan conceived not by human minds, but ordained by the very Creator of the universe. Ellen G. White reminds us of the importance of understanding God’s order in all aspects of our lives and ministry: “All things are to be done decently and in order. Order is Heaven’s first law, and it should be the law among God’s people on earth” (Review and Herald, vol. 3, 1884). Let us, therefore, diligently seek to understand this divine order for His church. Furthermore, she emphasizes the continuous relevance of this principle: “God is a God of order, and He desires that His people shall be brought into order, and connected together in unity of action” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, 1872). With these inspired thoughts as our guide, and remembering the Apostle Paul’s instruction “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40, KJV), let us proceed to explore the divine blueprint for church organization, understanding that “God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33, KJV). Unity thrives when the community aligns with God’s structured plan, as “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Colossians 1:16, KJV). God’s design ensures harmony, for “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11, KJV). Sr. White highlights that “The arrangements of God are always the best, though we may not always understand them” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 50, 1890). She also notes, “God requires that order and system be observed in the conduct of His work today” (The Desire of Ages, p. 822, 1898). Truly, embracing this order draws the community closer to divine peace and purpose—but what ancient example illustrates the power of shared leadership in action?

AUTHORITY’S AWESOME ALLIANCE!

Imagine Moses, weary from dawn till dusk, single-handedly adjudicating every matter for the burgeoning nation of Israel. Exhaustion threatened to overwhelm him, and the people, too, were surely fatigued by the endless queues. Then, in divine providence, Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, arrived in the camp near Sinai (Exodus 18:1-12). Observe Jethro’s wise counsel: “And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do. Moreover, thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens” (Exodus 18:20, 21, KJV). Consider the implications! This wasn’t merely practical advice from a worldly perspective, but a divinely inspired system of delegation. Sr. White elucidates, “The Lord had greatly honored Moses, and had brought wonders by his hand: but the fact that he had been chosen to instruct others did not signify that he should bear the load alone” (Patriarchs and Prophets, 301). Reflect deeply: even the mightiest prophet was not designed to function in isolation. This initial interaction reveals a fundamental truth: God’s method is one of shared responsibility, designed to sustain leadership, preserve justice, and enhance efficiency within His people. Sr. White further clarifies the divine origin and importance of this system: “The plan of organization so wisely laid in the wilderness, providing for every department of the work, was fully carried out by Moses under the direct inspiration of God” (The Southern Watchman, vol. 2, 1904). Truly, godly order, from its inception, is about shared burdens and multiplied blessings, a testament to divine wisdom, echoing the principle that “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour” (Ecclesiastes 4:9, KJV) and reminding us that “in the multitude of counsellors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14, KJV). Delegation empowers the community when “The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee” (Deuteronomy 28:8, KJV). Shared roles reflect God’s care, as “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17, KJV). Sr. White explains that “God has a church, and these churches are organized on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 15, 1923). She adds, “The strength of God’s people lies in their union with Him and with one another” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 236, 1885). Such collaboration builds resilience—but what traits define those entrusted with guiding roles?

LEADERS’ LEGENDARY QUALITIES!

What kind of individuals were to be entrusted with this delegated authority? Jethro’s counsel was explicit: “able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness” (Exodus 18:21, KJV). Ponder these characteristics. “Able men” implies competence, skill, and capacity to lead and judge wisely. “Fear God” denotes a profound reverence and respect for divine authority, a moral compass guided by heavenly principles. “Men of truth” suggests integrity, honesty, and unwavering commitment to righteousness. “Hating covetousness” underscores a detachment from material gain, ensuring selfless service above personal enrichment. These are not mere suggestions, but divine prerequisites for spiritual leadership, insisting on moral probity in those called to guide the flock. Indeed, leadership in God’s church is not a matter of mere position or title, but a sacred stewardship demanding unwavering righteousness before the Almighty. Sr. White highlights the critical role of godly leaders in maintaining the church’s spiritual health: “God calls for men who are fitted to act in concert, men who are pure and holy, men who will watch for souls as those who must give an account” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 1892). She further warns of the dangers of unqualified leadership: “Errors in the life practice of those who stand as leaders, will, as certainly as the leaven hid in three measures of meal, work unseen to leaven the whole lump, and thus souls are endangered” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, 1879). Without such men and women at the helm, the church risks being steered by self-interest, swayed by worldly values, and ultimately, shipwrecked on the shoals of compromise. Therefore, let us examine ourselves and those we entrust with leadership, ensuring they embody these divinely ordained qualities, remembering that “if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch” (Matthew 15:14, KJV) and that we are to “take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28, KJV). Integrity guides when “An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient” (Titus 1:6, KJV). Righteousness prevails as “The overseer is entrusted with God’s work, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain” (Titus 1:7, KJV). Sr. White stresses that “The Lord calls for faithful men. Men who will bear the message to those who are near and afar off” (Gospel Workers, p. 13, 1915). She affirms, “God requires that His chosen ministers shall be men of prayer and faith” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 498, 1871). These standards protect the community—but how does this structure endure across eras?

HISTORY’S HEROIC THREAD!

Was this system of order implemented amidst the desert wanderings, merely a temporary fix? Did it vanish once Israel settled in Canaan? Turn to Numbers 2:2: “Every man of the children of Israel shall pitch by his own standard, with the ensign of their father’s house: far off about the tabernacle of the congregation shall they pitch” (KJV). And consider Numbers 10:2: “Make thee two trumpets of silver; of a whole piece shalt thou make them: that thou mayest use them for the calling of the assembly, and for the journeying of the camps” (KJV). These passages reveal a sustained, detailed organizational structure far beyond the immediate needs of the Sinai journey. Sr. White emphasizes, “Has God changed from a God of order? No; He is the same in the present dispensation, as in the former… He is as particular now, as then. And He designs that we should learn lessons of order and organization from the perfect order instituted in the days of Moses, for the benefit of the children of Israel” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, 653). Reflect on this profound continuity. God’s nature is immutable, and His principles of order are timeless. Divine organization is not a fleeting adaptation, but a constant necessity for His people, irrespective of time or circumstance. Sr. White explicitly connects the Old Testament order to the New Testament church: “The order that was maintained in the early Christian church made them strong to withstand opposition, and to carry forward the work for God. The order and system manifested in their lives made their efforts successful in extending the gospel” (Review and Herald, vol. 4, 1892). The remnant church today, facing unprecedented challenges, must embrace this enduring truth, recognizing that order is not an option, but a divine imperative for survival and mission fulfillment, just as it was written, “for all things must be done in order” (1 Corinthians 14:23, KJV) and recognizing that “this thing is from me, saith the LORD: ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren” (1 Kings 12:24, KJV) demonstrating divine order even in times of potential conflict. Continuity strengthens when “For the body is not one member, but many” (1 Corinthians 12:14, KJV). God’s plan persists as “But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will” (1 Corinthians 12:11, KJV). Sr. White declares that “The same principles of piety and justice that were to guide the rulers among God’s people in the time of Moses and of David, were also to be followed by those given the oversight of the newly organized church of God in the gospel dispensation” (Acts of the Apostles, p. 95, 1911). She observes, “God has not changed; He is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 240, 1885). This timeless framework inspires—but how did Christ exemplify it in His ministry?

CHRIST’S COMMANDING MODEL!

Did Jesus, the very embodiment of God’s will, dismiss the concept of organization? Absolutely not! He Himself initiated the foundational structure of His church. Mark 3:14 records, “And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach” (KJV). This act of ordination, the deliberate selection and appointment of the twelve apostles, was no arbitrary choice. Sr. White clarifies, “It was at the ordination of the twelve that the first step was taken in the organization of the church that after Christ’s departure was to carry on His work on the earth” (Acts of the Apostles, 18). Contemplate this pivotal moment! The apostolic church was not a loose collective of individuals, but an organized body, led by divinely appointed leaders working in concert. Further, consider the appointment of deacons in Acts 6:1-7 and the roles of elders and pastors mentioned in Ephesians 4:11. These weren’t random additions, but deliberate structural components designed for effective ministry and spiritual care. Sr. White further emphasizes the intentionality of Christ in establishing this order: “Christ is our pattern. He organized His forces in order to carry forward His work. He Himself selected and organized His church” (Medical Ministry, 1909). She also highlights the practical necessity of this organization for the church’s mission: “In the organization of the church at Jerusalem, provision was at once made for the orderly and systematic carrying forward of the work of the ministry, both in reaching the people and in ministering to their temporal necessities” (Acts of the Apostles, 89). A church without order is akin to a body without a skeleton – formless, weak, and incapable of purposeful movement. Christ’s example, therefore, stands as a powerful endorsement of divine order, a blueprint for His church to thrive and accomplish His mission until His return, just as we see “When they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women” (Acts 8:12, KJV) showing order in conversion, and in accordance with the divine mandate to “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19, KJV). Christ’s framework unites as “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11, KJV). Harmony flows when “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2, KJV). Sr. White affirms that “The Saviour’s commission to the disciples included all the believers” (The Desire of Ages, p. 822, 1898). She notes, “The disciples were to go forth as Christ’s witnesses, to declare to the world what they had seen and heard of Him” (Acts of the Apostles, p. 27, 1911). This model yields fruit—but why prioritize such structure for the community’s growth?

UNITY’S ULTIMATE POWER!

But why is this emphasis on church order so vital? What is its aim? Paul reveals in Ephesians 4:12, “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (KJV). Church organization is not about power or control, but about spiritual growth, effective evangelism, and the strengthening of the collective body. Consider Christ’s fervent prayer in John 17:21: “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (KJV). Unity, born of divine order, is not just an internal blessing, but a powerful witness to the world. Sr. White passionately declares, “I saw that this door at which the enemy comes in to perplex and trouble the flock can be shut. I inquired of the angel how it could be closed. He said: The church must flee to God’s word, and become established upon gospel order, which has been overlooked and neglected. This is indispensably necessary in order to bring the church to the unity of the faith” (Early Writings, 100). She also warns of the detrimental consequences of neglecting this divine order: “A neglect to carry out divinely appointed order leads to a disregard of God’s word, and to a state of confusion and disunion. Satan is constantly working to lead men to feel that God is not particular in regard to order, that it is of little consequence. This is the deception of Satan” (Review and Herald, vol. 3, 1884). Without this divinely ordained structure, unity fractures, discord festers, and the church’s mission is severely compromised. Divine order, therefore, is not merely a matter of procedure, but the very foundation upon which unity and effective witness are built, essential elements for the church’s triumphant march onward, in fulfillment of the prayer that we “all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, KJV) and striving to be “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, KJV). Purpose emerges when “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, KJV). Strength multiplies as “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” (Hebrews 10:24, KJV). Sr. White explains that “The Lord has bestowed great blessings upon His church. Justice demands that she return these talents with usury” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 381, 1885). She adds, “Unity and perfect love are the credentials by which men shall know that we are Christ’s disciples” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 401, 1923). Such bonds reflect deeper affection—but how does this reveal God’s care for us?

LOVE’S LUMINOUS DESIGN!

How do these concepts of order and organization reflect God’s boundless love for us? Examine Paul’s profound declaration: “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33, KJV). Observe the divine intention – peace, not chaos. God’s very nature is one of order and peace, not confusion. Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 14:33 directly contrasts God’s character with disorder and confusion, and we are told “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law” (1 Corinthians 14:34, KJV) highlighting even specific aspects of order in worship. Divine order within the church is not a restrictive imposition, but a loving provision designed to shield us from spiritual anarchy and to nurture a harmonious environment where faith can flourish. Sr. White reassures us that this order is a manifestation of God’s loving care: “The Lord is a God of order. Everything connected with heaven is in perfect order; and as a result, there is perfect harmony of action. And if God’s people on earth will strive for order, there must be concert of action. God is working to bring about order among His people, and He desires that they shall harmonize in their plans and efforts” (Review and Herald, vol. 3, 1884). Furthermore, she explains the practical benefits of this divine order as a demonstration of His love: “He has instituted order and regulation in His church that all may be done decently and in order. He is not the author of confusion, but of peace. He requires order in the church, and He requires order in the home” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, 1855). A well-ordered church, reflecting God’s nature, is a sanctuary of peace, a refuge from the turbulence of the world. God’s love is intrinsically woven into the fabric of divine order, manifesting as a protective and nurturing force within His church. He desires not to burden us with rules, but to bless us with structure that fosters peace, unity, and spiritual growth, a testament to His unwavering love and care. Affection shines when “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples” (John 15:8, KJV). Care abounds as “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27, KJV). Sr. White states that “Love to Jesus will be manifested in a desire to work as He worked for the blessing and uplifting of humanity” (Steps to Christ, p. 82, 1892). She observes, “The Saviour’s life on earth was a life of communion with nature and with God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 363, 1898). This protection invites response—but what role do we play in honoring leadership?

SUBMISSION’S SACRED STRENGTH!

Consider Hebrews 13:17: “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you” (KJV). God calls us to obedience and submission to divinely appointed leadership within His church. Hebrews 13:17 directly commands obedience and submission to those who rule over us in spiritual matters, and we are instructed to “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17, KJV), showing respect for leadership is divinely ordained. This is not blind allegiance, but a recognition of God’s ordained system of leadership, a system established for our spiritual well-being and guidance. Submitting to church order is not a passive act, but an active participation in God’s design, reflecting our reverence for His authority and our trust in His plan. Sr. White warns against resisting this divinely established order: “God has invested His church with special authority and power which no one is justified in disregarding and despising, for in doing this, he despises the voice of God. When one departs from the regularly established order and rule, and begins to work in an independent line, on his own responsibility, Satan is getting him into his ranks to deceive and destroy souls” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, 1879). She further emphasizes the positive response God desires: “God desires that there should be order and system in everything connected with His work. He requires order in His church, and He wants His people to move understandingly and systematically” (Review and Herald, vol. 3, 1884). Our responsibility toward God, in the context of divine order, is to actively and willingly submit to and support the structures He has established within His church, recognizing them as instruments of His loving guidance and care for our souls. Reverence guides when “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7, KJV). Trust builds as “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5, KJV). Sr. White notes that “The Lord has given to His people a message for this time. It is present truth” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 17, 1900). She affirms, “Obedience to all the commandments of God is the only true sign of sanctification” (Evangelism, p. 226, 1946). This honor extends outward—but how do we uplift one another in community?

COMMUNITY’S COURAGEOUS BOND!

And what, then, are our responsibilities toward our fellow members, our neighbors within the church community? Reflect on Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (KJV). We are called to mutual support and burden-bearing within the church community, fulfilling Christ’s law of love. Galatians 6:2 explicitly instructs us to bear one another’s burdens, linking this action to fulfilling the law of Christ, and we are called to be “kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another” (Romans 12:10, KJV) demonstrating the spirit of unity within the body. Church organization provides the framework for this mutual support and accountability. It allows us to function as a cohesive body, where we can effectively assist, encourage, and uplift one another in our shared faith journey. Dismissing organization, conversely, fosters individualism and isolation, hindering our ability to effectively minister to one another. Sr. White highlights the role of organization in facilitating collective action for the benefit of others: “It is necessary that order be observed, that church regulations be followed; for system is essential in carrying forward the work of God successfully. In order that success may attend His work, there must be united action; organization and order are essential” (The Review and Herald, vol. 5, 1884). She also stresses the importance of individual responsibility within this ordered structure to care for others: “God is leading a people out of the world to stand upon the elevated platform of eternal truth, the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. He will discipline and fit up His people. They will not be at variance, one believing one thing, and another having faith and views entirely opposite, each moving independently of the body. Through the diversity of the gifts and governments that He has set in the church, they will all come to the unity of the faith…Then brotherly love will exist, heart will beat in unison with heart. The strong will help the weak, and the inexperienced will lean upon the experienced, and all will be working harmoniously in their respective spheres” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, 1857). Our responsibility toward our fellow members is to actively participate in the ordered life of the church, contributing to a community of mutual support, accountability, and love, thus fulfilling Christ’s law and strengthening the bonds of unity within His body. Encouragement flourishes when “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3, KJV). Assistance thrives as “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” (Philippians 2:4, KJV). Sr. White declares that “The Lord designs that His people shall be one with Him as the branches are one with the vine” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 198, 1909). She adds, “Mutual kindness and forbearance will make home a Paradise and attract holy angels into the family circle” (The Adventist Home, p. 426, 1952). This harmony culminates in reflection—but what final insights affirm its eternal value?

REFLECTIONS’ RADIANT RESOLVE!

The journey from Sinai to the apostolic era resounds with a clear, unwavering message: divine order is not an antiquated concept, but a timeless principle, vital for God’s people in every age, and especially crucial for the remnant church today. It is not a human invention, but a heavenly blueprint, meticulously designed for unity, spiritual growth, and effective mission. Let us wholeheartedly embrace this divine order. Let us not view organization as a constraint, but as a framework of love, a testament to God’s care, and a pathway to collective strength. Only in embracing this heavenly design, can we stand firm, united, and prepared for the glorious return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. May we all, by God’s grace, become exemplars of divine order, reflecting His peace and love to a world desperately in need of both. In closing, let us heed Sr. White’s powerful call to action: “We need to closely examine our methods of work. We need to study the plans of organization and methods of work that were carried out in Bible times. God’s plan is to be carried out in every department of His work” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, 1902). And finally, remember this solemn reminder and encouragement: “Let all things be done decently and in order, in the house of God. Then will the Lord bless His people in their united efforts” (Review and Herald, vol. 3, 1884), so that we may truly be “a city that is compact together: Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD” (Psalm 122:3-4, KJV). Solidarity endures when “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous” (1 Peter 3:8, KJV). Preparation readies as “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25, KJV). Sr. White urges that “The Lord has a controversy with His professed people in these last days” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 211, 1875). She encourages, “Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand” (Review and Herald, March 9, 1905).

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into the principles of divine order in church organization, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these complex themes of structured harmony to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about divine order in church organization in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of divine order and mutual support in preparation for Christ’s soon return?