Elders

The ideal congregation understands and appreciates the biblical work of elders. The apostle Paul said, “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Tim. 5:17). This admonition will go unfulfilled if we fail to both understand and appreciate the work of our elders.

The biblical work of elders weighs heavily upon men holding such responsibility. The innate nature of the responsibility requires the eldership to function as overseers (bishops, Acts 20:28). As overseers, they watch and protect the flock under their charge as they exercise administrative oversight over the affairs of the local congregation. This body of overseers also functions as shepherds (pastors, 1 Pet. 2:25). As shepherds, they care for the general spiritual well-being of each and every soul under their charge. Therefore, when a body of qualified elders fulfills their godly responsibility in a qualitative manner, they truly function as the presbytery (1 Tim. 4:14) and are deserving respect for their maturity of experience as they function as an eldership.

Elders continually face challenges which are weighty and consequential. These men, though perhaps of great spiritual stature, have feet of clay and will on occasion disappoint even the best of us. May we have the courage to firmly stand by their side, assisting them in addressing any challenge that may come their way, and spiritually embrace these men and their work. Thereby, we will lend them support when they need us most. Let us, as men of old, lift up the arms of “Moses” as the spiritual battle is engaged. By so doing, we may change the destiny of our people. May the Lord richly bless our elders.

As we close this series, let me throw out one last medley of characteristics that mark the ideal congregation.

The ideal congregation understands and appreciates the work of deacons and preachers. Biblical terminology portrays deacons as special servants and preachers as bold proclaimers of the Word of God. Consistent therewith is the requirement that deacons first be proved (1 Tim. 3:10) and for preachers to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Tim. 4:2, KJV).

The ideal congregation maintains a clear distinction from denominationalism and receives godly correction. The first century church in Corinth was plagued by division (1 Cor. 1-4) and modern-day denominationalism has no biblical authority for its existence, varied doctrines, flawed worship, and misguided fellowship (Col. 3:17). Separation must be maintained between the Lord’s body and false religion (2 Cor. 6:17). Furthermore, godly correction should be well-received and valued as such as administered in a godly manner for godly purposes (1 Cor. 5; 2 Cor. 2:5-8). As God’s children, we are in need of his chastening (Heb.12:5ff).

The ideal congregation respects the individual judgments of its members in matters outside the scope of the system of faith (Rom. 14). Opinions and personality differences should not be divisive. The apostle Paul made the point well when he said, “Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind” (Rom.14:5b).

In summary of all that has been said in this series, the ideal congregation studies, applies, and lives by the Word of God. May the Lord bless our people as we so do!

The ideal congregation responds in a positive manner to the plans of its leadership, especially when a congregation is led by an appointed godly eldership. Christians were exhorted to “obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: For they watch for your souls, as they that must give account…” (Heb. 13:17). On the one hand, we must obey our elders both in matters of faith and matters of judgment as such concerns the work and well-being of the local congregation. On the other hand, may our elders have the courage and vision to plan the work of the congregation so that unity, truth, and the mission of the church are supported and fulfilled.

To achieve and maintain the above aspirations, we as members should establish and nurture a trusting, respectful relationship with our elders. The effort required to do so must be reciprocal, all parties making their best effort to work well together. Additionally, may we respond to leadership plans by seeking out an active role in the actual implementation of the work. If improvements are needed or desired in our cooperative efforts, may we employ well-timed constructive criticism whose only goal is to assist in improving our work. In this manner we will bring a greater measure of glory to both the Father and the church as we struggle together to do the work of the Lord.

The ideal congregation practices liberality in both attitude and action, especially as such relates to the planning, organization and implementation of individual or congregational spiritual labors. The apostle Paul, in commending liberality, encouraged the brethren in Corinth to sow bountifully (2 Cor. 9:6) and to “ lay by him in store as God hath prospered him“ (1 Cor. 16:2). He set before the congregation the sacrificial liberality of the Macedonians to motivate them unto similar action (2 Cor. 8:1-7).

Liberality may be rightfully exercised in contexts that may not involve financial interests and be equally important and impacting. May we as the people of God better learn the art of liberality in mercy (Col. 3:12) and compassion (Matt. 18:21-35), thereby relieving others’ affliction as prompted by a heart that is truly touched by their distress. May we better develop loving concern for all men (Rom. 13:8) so that we better imitate our heavenly Father (Eph. 5:1; John 3:16). May we exercise liberality in the commitment and use of both our time and our talents in the work of the Lord (Matt. 25:14-30). Such liberality is wisely exercised in all good works that the Father demands of us individually. In order to successfully attain the worthy goal of liberality, may we be as the Macedonians who first gave themselves unto the Lord (2 Cor. 8:5). Only then may we prosper as we never have before.

The Ideal Congregation (Pt. 8)

The Ideal Congregation (Pt. 5)