The Chalukyan Architecture of the Kanarese Districts c49.211

c49.211

The government of the Church was at first simple and flexible. The apostles, as the chosen witnesses of Christ, exercised a general oversight and authority. But as the number of believers increased, and the work of the Church expanded, it became necessary to appoint other officers to assist in the administration of its affairs. Thus, we read of the appointment of the seven, who were chosen to serve tables, that the apostles might give themselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.