Who does the Church belong to—the pastor, the members, the founding families, the largest donors, or Jesus Christ?

In Pot 3, Cup 2 of Grace in the Grind, Cody Hudson examines what the Bible says about ownership, authority, leadership, and stewardship within the Church.

Colossians 1 declares that Jesus is the Head of the body. Acts 20 says the Church was obtained through His blood. First Peter 5 commands pastors and elders to shepherd the flock of God—not their own flock. Together, these passages settle the question of ownership:

The Church belongs to Jesus.

That truth challenges both church leaders and church members.

Pastors and elders possess real biblical authority, but it is delegated authority. They are shepherds, stewards, and servants—not owners, celebrities, or saviors.

Members can also develop a sense  ...