SELECTING ELDERS

One of the things that gave Wanda and me some concern in considering the move here was the lack of elders. I do not believe unqualified men should be appointed just to have elders, but I do believe having elders is vital to any congregation’s success. We were assured the congregation wanted to appoint elders and was working toward that end. Now, those efforts are possibly coming to fruition.

I do not want this to be understood as an objection or endorsement of one or all of the men who have been selected. I simply would like to help direct your thoughts as you consider your responsibility in this. I do believe these four men have given careful consideration and I commend them for their desire to serve the Lord and His church in this capacity. I would like to mention a few of things for you to consider as we go through this process.

Are they qualified? I believe this must be your primary concern. As you know, the qualifications are given by Paul in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Do you believe any of them fall short? If so, you have the responsibility to voice your concerns. This is not an opportunity for character assassination, but a time for careful, honest evaluation of their qualifications.

Are they capable? I fear that too often we think of being an elder more as a position of honor than a work. Those who are elders in the church are due our respect and honor, but there is more to it. When you look at the qualifications, descriptions and commands to elders, it is not very hard to see that it is a work of grave responsibility. They are to feed, oversee, guide, shepherd, teach, warn, correct and discipline the flock. Are these four men capable of doing the work?

Are they perfect? No, and if that were a requirement none of us would be qualified. They are human, just like us. They have their strengths and weaknesses, just like us. While they may be subject to more scrutiny, they are not required to live perfect, sinless lives.

You will notice that I did not mention anything about whether you “liked” them or not. This is not a popularity contest. While I do think it is important for them to have good relationships in the congregation, and to have the support of the congregation, the primary consideration is whether or not they meet God’s criteria.

As we continue through this process in the upcoming days, give prayerful consideration to each of these men. If appointed, they will be the leaders of this congregation for the foreseeable future, and it will go in the direction they take it whether good or bad.