What are the biggest issues facing the Church today? Nominalism? Licentiousness? The human heart? Yes, yes, and absolutely! I would add another to this list: clericalism. What do I mean by clericalism? Well, I certainly don't mean the existence of clerics, spiritual authority, leadership structures, etc. The New Testament is clear that spiritual leadership is from God and is to be obeyed. By clericalism I mean an unhealthy separation or distinction between the clergy and the laity. This is sometimes institutional, but it is just as often cultural and unspoken. Some denominations and churches restrict liturgical or pastoral duties to clergy as a matter of principle, while others do it as a matter of habit or practicality. It is sometimes the fault of the clergy who seek to retain power, control, or money, but it is perhaps more often the preference of laymen who are perfectly satisfied with a consumeristic relations...