2. From the earliest days of the church, local congregations have had their problems. The church at Thyatira allowed a so-called prophetess to lead disciples astray (Rev 2:20). The church at Laodicea was lukewarm (Rev 3:15-16). At different stages in the first century, the church at Ephesus had its problems. There were heretics that ran rampant in Ephesus (1 Tim 1:3-4). The church in Ephesus had left their first love (Rev 2:4-5).

3. ELDERS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN THE CHURCH.

4. ACTS 20:28-31

5. We must always take care of ourselves before we seek to take care of others. “Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?” (Matt 7:3). “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Tim 4:16).

6. ACTS 20:28-31

7. Elders are to “shepherd the church of God.” As shepherds of God’s church, elders protect the church (1 Sam 17:34-35). As shepherds of God’s church, elders lead the church (Ps 23:2). As shepherds of God’s church, elders feed the church (Ps 23:5).

8. ACTS 20:28-31

9. ELDERS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN THE CHURCH.

10. We need to understand the gravity of the eldership. God intended elders to do what is necessary to further the work of His kingdom. Elders aren’t to take that role lightly.

11. We need to pray for our elders. We find people praying for the church. “Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God” (Col 4:12). Paul made mention of the Ephesians in his prayers (Eph 1:16). If you’re going to pray for the church, you need to pray for her elders.

12. We need to submit to the elders. The elders do have real authority. “Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct” (Heb 13:7). “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” (Heb 13:17). Paul refers to the elders as “overseers” (Acts 20:28).

13. One reason I’m confident that elders have authority is that Jesus is called a Shepherd and Overseer. “You were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Pet 2:25). “When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away” (1 Pet 5:4).

14. HAVE YOU SUBMITTED TO THE AUTHORITY OF CHRIST?