Ridgell's Originals

Paul makes it a point of emphasis to Timothy and Titus that the elders must know and teach Scripture.  Paul even indicates to Timothy that good elders who preach and teach should be compensated.  

You want an elder that is "apt" to teach.  And elder that is quick to share the Word of God.  One that is able to do that.  You want spiritual shepherds who can answer your spiritual questions with words from God.

This seems important for two reasons.  You do want spiritual guides who just offer their opinions.  You want truth spoken into your life.  Second -- you want your community of faith led by shepherds who are grounded in truth.  Men you know are standing on a solid foundation.  Men you can trust.

In his letter to Titus, Paul even gives two reasons for elders to be grounded in truth.  They are to encourage their flock by sharing sound doctrine.  Truth.  Words from God that speak into hearts and lives.  It is a very positive reason for elders to know the Bible.  

But it is also so that elders can refute false doctrine.  You have to trust your elders to be able to stop wrong teaching.  And to do so by using God's Word.  

In reading thru Scripture, you get the real sense that elders are the ones responsible for ensuring the flock is fed by the Word of God.  In fact, you get the sense that elders are the ones doing that.  Not just making sure it is done, but actually doing it.  Sometimes in the assembly.  Or in small groups.  Or in homes.  Or coffee shops.  But teaching.    

Elders.  Old men.  Men who have spent years in study so that God's Word is a part of who they are.  And as a side note, most of the admonitions about teaching in Scripture are to older men and women who are to teach younger men and women.  Not exclusively I know.  But that is a major emphasis. 

You get the impression in Scripture that preachers/ministers/evangelists were busy bringing non-beleivers into the Kingdom.  And then that the elders were responsible for teaching them, maturing them, growing them. 

So make sure your elders know Scripture.

It is the mark of a healthy church.  

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM