1. Why Have Elders?

2. Earlier This Year We looked at the need for more elders.
We discussed their biblical qualifications and characteristics.
We read their biblical responsibilities.

3. Do You Know What These Men DO?

4. They Have Been Tasked (1 Peter 5:2-3)
To Serve…
As overseers: guide & protect the flock. cp. Acts 20:28
Willingly and eagerly. cp. 1 Tim. 3:1
As (leading) examples, not as “domineering masters”.

5. They Make Tough Decisions…
Whatever the situation they try to think of what is best for the whole church.
They think through how to share their decision that benefits the whole church.
They try to consider ways in which their decisions potentially affects individuals.

6. Our Responsibility to Our Overseers

7. IF This Is You I disagree with the elders so…
I will do something else.
I will complain about their decision(s).
CONSIDER: What’s the point of having elders “oversee the flock” if they are nothing more than symbols of authority?

8. Ordained To Rule/Lead
“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” Acts 20:28

9. Submitting To Their Rule/Lead
“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.” (Hebrews 13:17)

10. God’s Wisdom To Have Elders
God’s desire is for His church to grow in Him in truth and love. Eph. 4:11-16
Our elders are striving to serve as godly examples toward that end.
Our responsibility – individually – is to “let them do so with joy and not with grief.”