2. CONCERNING ELDERS The work The qualifications And what they are not

3. 1 Peter 5:1-2 I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;

4. The Work of Elders Presbuteroi / elder Poimen / shepherd, pastor Not titles, but job descriptions A shepherd, exercising oversight would lead, feed, rest, protect, heal, and nurture, guided by God’s will, not self, for the crown of v. 4.

5. Acts 20:28-31 Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31 Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish everyone with tears.

6. The Work of Elders 3 Works Given… 1.Guard yourselves 2.Guard the flock 3.Be on the alert Episkopoi / overseer, bishop

7. Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.

8. The Work of Elders He watches for souls As one who will give account Shepherding is a serious job and not for everyone.

9. If the Job is NOT for Everyone, Who qualifies? The Holy Spirit says it is the one who is… 1.Above reproach (nothing laid at his feet) 2.Husband of one wife 3.Temperate (moderate) 4.Prudent (wise) 5.Respectable (worthy of it) 6.Hospitable 7.Able to teach (without excuses !?1)

10. If the Job is NOT for Everyone, Who qualifies? The Holy Spirit says it is the one who is… 7. Not addicted to wine 8. Or pugnacious 9. Gentle 10. Uncontentious 11. Free from the love of money

11. If the Job is NOT for Everyone, Who qualifies? The Holy Spirit says it is the one who is… 12. Manages his household …well …with dignity …has his children under control 13. Not a novice 14. Having a good reputation outside

12. If the Job is NOT for Everyone, Who qualifies? The Holy Spirit says it is the one who is… 15. Having children who believe 16. Not self-willed 17. Not quick tempered 18. Hospitable 19. Loving what is good, lover of good men

13. If the Job is NOT for Everyone, Who qualifies? The Holy Spirit says it is the one who is… 20. Sensible, i.e. reasonable, approachable 21. Just, i.e. fair 22. Devout 23. Self-controlled 24. Holding fast the faithful word

14. What Elders are Not… 1 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. Elder is not an honorary label, title, or position of respect

15. What Elders are Not… Matthew 20:25-26 25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant Lords, bosses, or chiefs giving orders

16. What Elders are Not… Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2 Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers… …shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight… Traveling shepherds - authority is in their own local flock

17. What Elders are Not… 1 Timothy 5:19-21 19 Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 20 As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear. 21 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality. Above correction

18. What Elders are Not… Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. Free from accountability

19. Leadership is Always a Serious Job Because… Souls are at stake You are watched as examples Power is corrupting It can be grieving Family leadership example is needed But leadership can also be richly rewarding and satisfying.