Reino de Deus ou império de homens? Uma possível distorção pastoral quanto à Igreja Local

Abstract

This article analyzes pastoral deviations in the leadership of local churches, highlighting how practices contrary to the Word of God hinder the healthy growth of the body of Christ and the advancement of His Kingdom. The study presents different levels of awareness regarding these deviations, ranging from unconscious acts to intentional behaviors that stray from biblical principles. Additionally, it provides a brief historical overview, including the example of the Catholic Church and the Protestant Reformation, demonstrating how vanity and the pursuit of human power can compromise spiritual leadership. Finally, it proposes solutions grounded in biblical principles to strengthen pastoral vocation and ensure that the church progresses in alignment with God’s will.