Thursday, March 03, 2022
Elders have to know the Word
This is the characteritic of elders that seems to not recieve as much attention in most churches.
Elders have to know Scripture. Most elderships have assigned responsibility for teaching and preaching to full-time ministers. Interestingly, the strongest Scripture for paying preachers and teachers is when elders are doing it in addition to being elders. Paid elders. Not a paid elder to do admin work, but paid to be a shepherd. And especially if he teaches and preaches.
One of the descriptions of an elder is that he is a teacher. Not able to teach. Or willing to teach. But a active teacher.
In Titus it is even explained why elders need to know truth from Scripture.
They use Scripture to encourage others in sound belief. Elders have to use Scripture to encourage their flock. Without Scripture, it is just opinions. But there is appropriate weight given to encouragement that comes from the Bible.
And elders have to know truth so they can refute those who oppose it.
Elders.
There will always be people who oppose what God says. They think He didn't go far enough and so they must add to what God did not say.
Or, people who think God went too far and must take away some of what was said.
Elders must be the ones who keep their community of faith on track with the truth.
And yes, I think elders are responsible for what is taught in their churches. Not just the preacher.
so God gave us His Word. And He expects His shepherds to keep His people faithful to that truth.
