Elders: Lead and Respected

Quality of Leadership

One of the most important factors in the growth of any organization is the quality of its leadership. The same is true in the church. The elders of the church occupy a crucially important position. By their knowledge of God’s word, their vision, their zeal, and their consecration to the Lord, they will largely determine the future growth and development of the church. The work of being an elder is one of the most important and most difficult of all works known to man. The responsibilities and the obligations are heavy; the opportunities are great. To be qualified to be an elder and to be appointed to that work is the greatest honor within the church---and the greatest honor which Christians can receive.

Respect for Elders

Congregations also have responsibilities. They are to love and respect their elders. They are to follow the instructions and examples of their elders. Paul wrote to Timothy, “rebuke not an elder, but exhort him as a father; the younger men as brethren”. Later in the same chapter Paul said: 1 Timothy 5:17-20 Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, "You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer deserves his wages." Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.

When Paul told Timothy that elders are worthy of double honor, he was indicating that in addition to honor and respect they also may be paid, as they have need for such pay. The context of the passage indicates that it is speaking of financial help.

Concerning the matter or respect for elders the apostle Peter wrote 1 Peter 5:5 “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders.“ This statement is found in the passage in which he mentions the qualifications and work of elders. In a passage previously mentioned, the writer of the Hebrew letter wrote of respect that Christians are to have for their elders: Hebrews 13:7 “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

Batsell Barrett Baxter
Family of God
A Study of the New Testament Church