This is a subject that I've thought about for some time. It seems to me that my husband and I have, because of our cult background, a great deal of skepticism regarding the authority of the pastor and elders. It's hard for me to see them as representing God's authority. Yes, I may admire a pastors wisdom and knowledge and certainly take it into account when making a decision. However, I know that they are human and can err like all humans. Therefore, I find it very difficult to place myself under a pastor's authority completely.