The Responsibilities of
Elders
Introduction:
It is dangerous to forget
that the eldership is a work. Last week, we discussed the fact that Jesus has
ordained them with authority from on high to carry out their responsibilities. Not
only should we recognize they have this authority, but we need to understand
what the proper usage of that authority is.
I.
What is the work of the elders?
A.
They rule. 1 Tim. 5:17;
3:4-5; Heb. 13:7, 17, 24
B.
They watch. Heb 13:17
C.
Scriptures describe them in three principal ways.
1.
Elder/Presbyter – emphasizes who is to do the work.
a)
Acts 14:23 – indicates age, experience, maturity, wisdom, &
dignity
2.
Overseer/Bishop – emphasizes what the work is.
a)
Acts 20:28; Phil. 1:1
b)
Elders are charged with the duty of seeing that things should be done rightly.
c)
1 Peter 5:2 – take care, see to it, oversee, care for.
3.
Shepherd/Pastor – emphasizes how the work is to be done.
a)
Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2 – Elders herd, care for, look after.
b)
Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2 – shepherd the flock.
1)
Leading; guiding; showing the way (1 Peter 5:3)
2)
Heb. 13:7 – shepherds provide spiritual nourishment.
c)
Shepherding involves guarding the flock from spiritual danger.
d)
Shepherding involves tending the flock.
II.
Their work is significant.
A.
No work is more needed than the important work of scriptural elders.
1.
1 Tim. 3:1 – it is a good work.
2.
Eph. 4:11-16 – when done scripturally, contribute to the well
being of the church.
B.
To accomplish all of the above is not without difficulty.
C.
Their work is serious.
1.
Elders are uniquely accountable to God. Ezekiel 34:7-10; Heb. 13:17
2.
Acts 20:26-27 – labor so as to be innocent of the blood of their
brethren.
III.
Their work is joyful.
A.
Heb. 13:17 - no more rewarding work than helping people grow
spiritually.
B.
1 Tim. 3:1 – their work is honorable.
C.
1 Tim. 3:1 – it is a work worthy of aspiring to.
Conclusion:
A.
Elders have a responsibility to rule, watch, oversee, and shepherd
Christians.
B.
1 Pet. 5:4 – a reward is promised to elders who do their jobs
well.
C.
That reward is promised to everyone. Are you ready?