130922 AM When the Bible Talks About Elders … (1)
| When the Bible Talks About Elders … (1) A. Philippians 1:1 provides a snapshot of a fully organized local church. 1. An unmistakable part of Paul’s work was appointing elders in every church (Acts 14:23). 2. Without “overseers, ” significant work is “unfinished ” (NIV), full potential is “lacking ” (NKJV, Tit 1:5). B. When the Bible talks about elders, what can we learn? I. Leadership the Lord’s Way A . “Whoever would be great among you must be your __________ ” (Matt 20:25-28). B. “I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you” (John 13:12-17). II. Learning from the Labels A. ________ : someone who has lived long enough and studied diligently to accrue some wisdom . 1. Acts 15:2 – “…to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question.” 2. Acts 20:17 – “He sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him. 3. 1 Pet 5:1- “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder . . .” 4. 1 Tim 5:17 – “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor …” B. __________ : someone who is responsible to see that things are done properly. 1. Acts 20:28- “…the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers …” 2. 1 Tim 3: 1 – “If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.” C. ___________ : someone who faithfully watches over the affairs of a master. 1. Tit 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach.” 2. 1 Car 4:2 – “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful. “D. __________ : someone who provides guidance, protection, and sustenance to a flock. 1. Eph 4: 11 – “He gave the apostles, the prophets , the evangelists, the shepherds …” 2. Heb 13:17 – “…for they are keeping watch over your souls …” 3. 1 Pet 5:1-5 – “…shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight.. .” 4. John 10:1-18 – “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” |