Includes bibliographical references (pages 253-286) and indexes

Leadership in the Graeco-Roman city. The political structures of the Graeco-Roman city ; The religious structures of the Graeco-Roman city -- Leadership in the Roman colony and city. The status and constitution of Roman cities ; Leading figures in the Roman colony -- Leadership in the voluntary associations. Defining the voluntary associations ; The social, political and religious dimensions of voluntary associations -- Leadership in the family and household. The father as the leader of the household ; The father and his sons ; The father and his slaves ; The father and household religion -- Leadership in the Jewish synagogues. The origins of the synagogue ; The function of the synagogue ; The rôle and function of synagogue leaders ; The status of Jews in society -- Leadership models for the Christian community. The influence of Graeco-Roman society on Christian communities ; The Christian community and cities ; The Christian community and associations ; The Christian community and families and households ; The Christian community and the synagogue ; The nature of the New Testament evidence -- Secular leadership in the Christian community. 1 Corinthians : a community divided over its leaders ; 2 Corinthians : a community boastful of its leaders ; Romans : a community with leaders preoccupied with status ; Philippians : a community with leaders preoccupied with politics ; 1 & 2 Thessalonians : a community influenced by pagan culture ; Galatians : communities with proud leaders ; Philemon : a household leader and church leader -- Pauline ministry in the Christian community. Authority ; Ministry or service -- Conclusions. Christian 'leaders' serving as 'ministers' ; Institutionalization

"Serve the Community of the Church, the second volume in the First-Century Christians in the Graeco-Roman World series, explores the nature of organization and leadership roles in the first-century Christian community, especially as they were variously taught by Paul and practiced in the earliest congregations."--Jacket