1. Congregational Responsibilities Toward Elders

2. Introduction  Many times members of a congregation assume no responsibilities for the progress of the church  God places responsibilities on Elders, therefore we have responsibilities toward their role.

3. God Knows Sheep Need a Shepherds  Like sheep we are unaware and vulnerable to dangers.

4. Like Sheep We…  Are stubborn.  Will deliberately and repeatedly harm ourselves.  Allow personal pride and self-assertion to overcome logical decisions.

5. Like Sheep We…  Insist that we know what is best for us.  Tend to cling to destructive habits.  Assert our will and ideas despite warnings we've received.

6. Establishing the Relationship  Two ways: – Baptism. –Acknowledgement of association with a group of Christians.

7. When Searching For A Congregation…  When moving we neglect the spiritual impact.  Consider consulting the elders.

8. Understand The Elders Beliefs Concerning…  Elders’ role.  Elders’ qualifications.  Church discipline.  Marriage, divorce, and remarriage.  Lord’s supper.

9. Understand The Elders Beliefs Concerning…  Assembly attendance.  Use of the congregations’ contributions.  Modesty issues.  Instrumental music.  The role of women in the church.  Baptism.

10. Members Must Know the Elders  In order to respect them, we must know them “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you” 1 Thessalonians. 5:12 “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you” 1 Thessalonians. 5:12

11. Members Must Know the Elders  In order to respect them, we must know them  Respect the Elders highly in love

12. Must Obey & Be in Submission to Elders “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…” 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…” Hebrews 13:17

13. Call on the Elders...Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. James 5:13-14...Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. James 5:13-14

14. “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account…” Hebrews 13:17.