The Church: Its Organization, Order and Discipline

Heavenly Calls, and Earthly Appointments

From the reading of the New Testament we see that those occupying leading positions in the church were of two classes: those receiving their call and appointment directly from the Lord, and those recognized, or directly appointed by the church. Among the former are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. While the church may by its voice recognize these as of divine appointment, it appears to be left to the churches, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to select and set apart elders and deacons, and to provide such other officers as may be found necessary for the management of the church in its various lines of work. COOD 67.1