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!
