Does Silence Authorize?

In view of the fact that the apostle Paul commanded brethren to be "perfectly joined together in the same mind" (1 Cor. 1:10), and that Jesus prayed that his disciples might be united so the world might believe (John 17:17-21), people often wonder, “Why do churches have different beliefs and practices?”

Perhaps one major reason Christianity, as seen by those in the world, is not united as God desires is that authority is often not respected and practiced. Churches practice things that God has not authorized. Some assert that if God did not say not to do some specific thing (in religion) then it is okay to do it. But let us test that assertion.

Paul wrote “For it is evident that our Lord arose from Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood” (Heb 7:14). Jesus could not have been a priest when He lived on the earth because to do so he would have been in violation of God’s Law. He would have been acting on the silence of the Scripture. The silence of the Scripture does not give us permission to act. While “it is not within man to direct his own steps” (Jer. 10:23) we are free to act within the confines of God’s word through Jesus and the apostles (John 12:48; 14:26; Gal 1:6-12; 2 Pet 1:3; Jas 1:25).

Another text that teaches the need for authority before action is to be taken is Acts 15:24. It says, "Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, [Ye must] be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no [such] commandment:” (Acts 15:24). The apostles had not yet taught that circumcision was not to be practiced. These men were acting on their own—making their own laws and in so doing were disturbing the unity of the church and unsettling the followers of Christ. That is why Peter commanded, “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Pet 4:11). And Paul wrote, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”

We should all take a good hard look at the organization, work, worship and practices of our churches. Do we align with New Testament instruction, or do we, in some cases, act on the silence of the Scripture? The only possible way disciples of Christ can be united, in a way that is pleasing to God, is if we limit our teachings and practices to what is authorized in the Scriptures.

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