WE HAVE ELDERS, NOW WHAT?

I am sure that most, in not all, of the members here know by now that we have elders. Linwood Burden & Terry Powell were appointed last week. I am thankful these two men have been selected and have agreed to serve the St. Mary’s congregation in this important work. I am thankful for the Christian attitude displayed by all during this sometimes difficult process. Now that we have elders, what should we do? I would like to begin by pointing out some responsibilities the members have toward elders.

Pray for them. “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,” (1 Timothy 2:1). While Paul’s admonition here speaks of prayers be made for all men, elders would certainly be included in “all men.” There is also the aspect of the tremendous responsibility they bear in their work. Anyone in such a position needs our prayers. I am sure both of these men solicit your prayers, both public and private.

Encourage them. One of the greatest blessings we receive as Christians is the encouragement we receive from one another. I truly appreciate the many that always have a word of encouragement to me after I deliver lessons. We need to let these men know we appreciate what they are doing. Many times, the only time we approach the elders is when we do not like something. Approach them from time to time with words of appreciation and praise. There are, and will be, making sacrifices to serve the church in this way. There will be times of trouble and discouragement. They need to know we love and support them, especially in times of trouble, but really at all times.

Honor them. “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17). There are those who believe Paul is referring to elders receiving pay. That may be the case, but taking the word “honor” in its usual sense is also appropriate.

Submit to (obey) them. “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:17). There are those today who question whether or not the elders have any authority. This verse answers with a resounding, “Yes.” While it is true that elders possess no authority to alter Christ’s doctrine, in matters of judgment they are the final authority in the church. I do believe good elders will listen to the congregation and not be dictatorial and overbearing, but ultimately the decision is theirs. We may not like it, we may not always agree, but this is God’s plan and we must follow it.

There will be, I am sure, a period of adjustment for everyone. For the members, as they adjust to having elders. For the elders, as they adjust to being elders. I hope this gives you some insight as to our responsibilities to the elders. Next week, we will look at the elders’ responsibilities to the congregation.

--Lamar