elders bodytraining manual

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T R A I N I N G M A N U A L

Preparing Gods leaders to better understand

themselves and their doctrines

Elder&Deacon

Prepared by

Christian Education Ministries

J O H N A . Y O U N T S , E D I T O R

o f T h e A s s o c i a t e R e f o r m e d P r e s b y t e r i a n C h u r c h


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Elder & Deacon Training Manual

Preparing Gods leaders to better understand themselves and their doctrines

2006 by Christian Education Ministries

Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church

Published by Life is Worship Publishing Group

117 Allison DriveFountain Inn, SC 29644

www.liwpg.com

Printed in the United States of America

ISBN 1-889672-01-7

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any

meansfor example, electronic, photocopy, recordingwithout the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is

brief quotations in printed reviews.

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture is taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984

International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE, copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968,

1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.


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Table of Contents

Foreword 4

Overview and Note to Pastors 5

Suggested Week by Week Assignments 9

Game Plan for Section One 10

SECTION 1

Introduction to Leadership & Relationships 12

Paper One Elders 15

Member Care Process 22

Job Description of an Elder 25

Paper Two Love and Leadership 30

Paper Three Listening & Leadership 38

Paper Four Pleasant Words &Leadership 45

Paper Five The Role of Deacons 54

Job Description of a Deacon 64

A Guide to Productive Meetings 67

Qualifications 74

Game Plan for SECTION 2 Doctrine 78

Game Plan for SECTION 3 Bible Knowledge 81

Game Plan for SECTION 4 Counseling & Discipline 83

Game Plan for SECTION 5 Stewardship 85

Resources and Continuing Development 87


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Foreword

Gods leaders must be people of God who understand themselves and their doctrines.

I was first elected an elder in the Greenville ARP Church in the fall of 1979. I was ordained and installed in

December to take office in January of 1980, almost twenty six years ago. I remember the Scripture that statedthe qualifications of elder. I remember the questions I was asked at the ordination. And I remember I was rather

clueless as to the role an elder plays in shepherding the church flock. I hate to admit this but it is true. It took

years for me to fully realize the heavy responsibility placed on a person who assumes the position of elder in a

church. And I dont think I am alone in entering this position blindly.

This is the main reason I have been excited about developing a leadership manual for elders and deacons.

Too many of us fall short of exercising the spiritual leadership called for in the role of elder or deacon. We

are very good at administrative tasks and taking care of the facilities and finances but shepherding the flock

(visiting, evangelism, etc.) we fall short.

I hope this manual will prove to be of help to individuals and groups who are striving to grow in Christ. Jay

Younts has done a great job in writing and compiling this material presented in this manual. I also want to thank

Dr. Mark Ross for allowing his two papers on the offices of elder and deacon to be reproduced in this manual.This manual outlines training procedures for church leaders. There are multiple tracks that can be utilized

in this training process. Included is a bibliography of key books to use along with the training course. The list is

not exhaustive but comprehensive.

The idea is to use the basic course format outlined, allowing the trainer to fully develop the sessions.

The parameters of the course are defined, but the trainer has the best knowledge of the individuals need for

training. The leader is encouraged to design the training program with this in mind. Experience is a great

teacher and it has taught us that each group has enough differences that the approaches need to vary to reflect

audience sensitivity. There are certain assumptions that are foundational to this training material.

First, leaders must demonstrate intentional spiritual pursuit of Gods purpose in their own lives. Francis

Schaeffers outstanding book TRUE SPIRITUALITY underscores this vital ingredient of godliness or holiness of

life.

Second, leaders must be strongly committed to ministering to people. Developing genuine relational skills

is necessary to any effective leadership. The lording over attitude is not the appropriate approach for people

of God. A shepherds heart that demonstrates care, concern, and involvement is vital if we are to touch peoples

lives; that is, after all, what leadership is all about. Also, leadership is concerned to help people become

everything that God would have them become. People skills are necessary to that end.

Third, leaders must have certain skills that focus on the particular task of planning. The calling and

challenge to mobilize people to work together toward the accomplishment of some worthwhile mission is a part

of leadership. Knowing how to plan, budget resources, and evaluate results are necessary ingredients to leading

effectively.

This course of study will encompass all three of the above areas though we realize that there must be anongoing study if there is to be fruit from the labors. We suggest some primary and secondary resource materials

to assist in the process.

Dr. David J. Vickery, Executive Director

Christian Education Ministries

Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church


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E l d e r s & D e a c o n s A T r a i n i n g M a n u a l 5

Overview and Note to Pastors

The goal of this manual is to provide a comprehensive, useful tool for

training your officers, a tool that will be a blessing to the ARP Church

and glorify our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This overview is addressed

to the pastors, the teaching elders who will be directly involved in thetraining of officers. No two pastors will approach the task of officer

training exactly alike. The manual acknowledges the appropriateness of

this reality. Therefore, each pastor has latitude to customize the course

materials as he thinks best for his particular situation. Since this material

will be available for all ARP churches, pastors will have opportunities

to interact and discuss the officer training process with other pastors

. They are, of course, free to choose from the various resources listed

in the appendix or to use other materials if they desire. This flexibility

acknowledges that one size does not fit all.

Within any denomination, there are differences concerning the style,

emphasis and interpretation of the standards of the church. Some

churches will favor a strict interpretation of the standards and others

will see the need for a flexible application of these same standards. The

denomination, as a body, must serve all of these varying styles that

make up the whole. Thus, a training program must also allow for the

wide variety of styles held by individual pastors, churches and even

presbyteries, if it is to be effective for the denomination at large. At the

same time, there are certain core concepts, biblical universals, that everycongregation should build upon as the training proceeds.

This training manual offers a consistent yet flexible program to assist

pastors in their quest to provide excellent training for church officers

throughout the denomination. Christian Education Ministry will offer

certified training that will seek to encourage churches and presbyteries

to work together more closely. The result should be to strengthen the

denomination as a whole.

A carefully selected list of resources is given in the appendices of this

manual.


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Training for all officers should include:

DOCTRINE

This is found formally in the The ARP Form of Governmentand

Standards. Doctrine provides the basic foundation for the life of

the church and for her officers.

BIBLICAL KNOWLEDGE Hermeneutics how to interpret the Bible

Theology basic systematic theology

Exegesis What the Bible actually says

While expert knowledge of these areas is not required, a working

knowledge of them is essential.

RELATIONSHIPS

Matthew 22:37-40 states the greatest commandments: love God and

neighbor.

Relational awareness will lead to skill in biblical understanding of

communications. These skills and abilities are just as vital to the

biblical success of the church as are the doctrinal positions that we

hold. These skills are, in fact, your doctrine applied to life.

COUNSELING AND DISCIPLINE

Informal counseling, formal counseling and even discipline, will be far

more effective where the members are persuaded of the love and

care of their officers. Knowledge and support of this true mark of a

church by the officers of the church is also essential.

STEWARDSHIP

Proper biblical stewardship of the resources of the church must be

the concern of each officer. Areas of stewardship include:

People

Plant assets

Fiscal assets

Money management

Long Range / Short Range planning

It is obvious then, that these are the areas of study that are focused

upon in this training manual. As the list of resources indicates, this

suggested method of training is not the only way to accomplish officer

training. There are other good ways to accomplish the job at hand.


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However, this course does cover the basic tools and skills that each

officer needs to learn. Please remain focused on the relational

challenges of being an officer. Gods people are in need of such care.

Availability of course materials

Course originals are available in PDF format from the Christian

Education Ministry website and on CD. This makes it possible for

churches to print and use only the quantities needed. Full sets will be

available in notebook form for churches desiring a more traditional

format.

Major cost savings are achieved by utilizing PDF and online formats.

This also allows for cost-effective updates to the manual as needed.

Implementation of training program

Training Track 1

Basic (8 week program: Meet 2 hours each week)

Doctrine 4 Hours

Bible Knowledge 3 hours

Relationships/Leadership 3 hoursCounseling and discipline 3 hours

Stewardship 3 hours

Comprehensive (11 week program: meet 3 hours each week)

Doctrine 8 Hours


Relationships/Leadership 6 hours

Counseling and discipline 6 hours

Stewardship 8 hours

Intensive (17 week program: meet 3 hours each week)

Doctrine 15 Hours


Relationships/Leadership 9 hours


Stewardship 9 hours


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Training Track 2

Alternate Training Schedule with particular emphasis on the

two offices:

Basic (8 week program: Meet 2 hours each week)

Doctrine 4 HoursBoth elders and deacons taught together

Bible Knowledge 3 hoursBoth elders and deacons taught together

Relationships/Leadership 3 hoursBoth elders and deacons taught together

Counseling and discipline 3 hoursOne hour both groups togetherElders taught for 2 hours with emphasis on elders role

Deacon participation optional

Stewardship 3 hoursBoth elders and deacons taught together

Comprehensive (11 week program: meet 3 hours each week)

Doctrine 9 HoursSix hours both officers togetherThree hours for elders only emphasis

Bible Knowledge 6 hoursBoth elders and deacons taught together

Relationships/Leadership 6 hoursThree hours taught together

Three hours with deacons and elders taught separately

with respect to their differing responsibilities


Three hours taught togetherElders taught for three hours with emphasis on elders role


Stewardship 6 hoursSix hours taught together

Intensive (17 week program: meet 3 hours each week)

Doctrine 15 Hours12 hours taught together

Three hours for elders only emphasis


Both elders and deacons taught togetherRelationships/Leadership 9 hoursSix hours taught together

Three hours with deacons and elders taught separately

with respect to their differing responsibilities

Counseling and discipline 9 hoursThree hours taught together

Elders taught for six hours with emphasis on elders role


Stewardship 9 hoursBoth elders and deacons taught together


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Suggested week by week assignment schedule for using the

17-week program.

In the time that leads up to the actual training sessions, it is

recommended that each new officer read the training manual before the

actual classes start.

As a prelude to each session, it is important that the class spend

time in prayer asking God to bless the session and for wisdom inunderstanding each of the issues discussed.

This prayer time is important. It would be good if each officer were

assigned to lead in prayer at least once during the course of the training

period. Being able to lead in prayer is an important skill for both elders

and deacons.

Another recommendation is for each officer to read and do the

assigned work listed in Timothy, Titus and You during the length of the

course. This book provides a valuable spiritual inventory for each class

participant. Each pastor should determine if he wants to discuss the

assignments in class or challenge each new officer to go through the

material on his own. (For that matter it would be a valuable exercise for

each of the current officers in the church to go through this book as

well.)

The references and books offered are only suggested guidelines.

Please feel free to substitute a book on a similar topic if you have one

that you are more comfortable with.


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Section 1 Leadership and Relationships

THE GAME PLAN FOR SECTION 1

Week One: Leadership and Relationships

Suggested Texts

Two papers by Dr. Ross printed in manual (pages 15, 54)

Three papers on leadership printed in manual (pages 30, 38, 45)

The Elder and His Workby David Dickson

Resources for Deacons by Tim Keller

Shepherding Gods Flockby Jay Adams

Classwork

Discuss the importance of demonstrating love in leadership

Practical examples of how elders and deacons are called upon to love in their

daily duties

Discuss the expectations that the congregation may have with regard to the

offices.

Discuss the expectations that the pastor has for this particular group of

officers.

Make particular application as to how leadership is needed in the congregation

where these officers are going to serve.

Review the two papers by Dr. Ross so that there is clear understanding of the

roles of each office and how they must work together.

Homework

Read paper on Listening and Leadership

Deacons read assigned chapters in Deacon book by Tim Keller

Elders read assigned chapters in The Elder and His Workby David Dickson

Week Two: Leadership and Relationships

ClassworkElders and deacons taught separately for each of the next two sessions. If there is not an

associate pastor at the church the pastor may request an elder to lead the class with the

deacons.

Elders discuss paper on the importance of listening.

Discuss the assigned chapters in the Elder and His Work

Deacons discuss the assigned chapters in Deacon book

E l d e r s & D e a c o n s S e c t i o n 1 1 0


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Both groups discuss practical ways that being a better listener will make them

a better officer. Role pray some real life examples of not listening well. For

example, speaking to someone before they have actually finished.

Homework

Read the remaining chapters in the Keller and Dickson books.

Each new officer should come prepared to discuss how they see the reading

assignment applying to their work as an elder or deacon Read Speaking and Leadership

Week Three: Leadership and Relationships

Classwork

Discussion on the reading assignments

Discuss the practical examples listed in both books regarding deacon and

elder care.

Discuss the passages and review Speaking and Leadership Spend additional time in the last hour praying for the

relationship that each new officer will have with the church.

Homework

Read ARP Standards statement on discipline

Read Handbook of Church Discipline by Jay Adams

Read Matthew 18

Go to page 71 for the rest of the suggested training schedule



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Introduction to Leadership and Relationships

Ephesians 4:11 teaches that one of the main jobs of the pastor/teacheris to equip the saints for the work of the ministry. It is in this spiritthat this officer training manual is offered. There is, perhaps, no task

more important to the equipping process than the biblical training of

elders and deacons.

The ARP Form of Government sets forth the following statements

about the duties of the offices Ruling Elder and Deacon.

For Elders: It is the responsibility of ruling elders, both

individually and jointly, to guard and promote the spiritual

welfare of the congregation. They are required by their office

to visit the people, especially the sick, and pray with them, to

comfort the sorrowing, encourage the weak, guide the wayward

and the careless, and, in general, to discharge all other duties in

Christian love. Although ruling elders do represent congregationsby election, they are to seek the will of God in all church court

decisions. F.O.G Chapter 8 B.2.

For Deacons: The diaconate shall be responsible for the

congregations ministry to those in material need or distress. It

shall also encourage practice of total stewardship among the

members of the congregation. It shall plan, in collaboration

with the session, the causes toward which the offerings of the

congregation shall be directed; devise effective methods forsecuring and receiving these offerings; secure and receive special

offerings as directed by the session and the higher courts of the

Church; and see that all offerings are properly distributed. It shall

have the care of the general property of the congregation, both

real and personal. In matters requiring extraordinary expenditure

for acquisition, construction, or alteration of church property,

consent of the congregation is required. F.O.G. Chapter 7 C.1

The mandate of our churchs highest court, the Synod, is that the

offices of ruling elder and deacon are to play a vital role in the local

church.

The Bible uses vivid metaphors to make truth understandable to

its readers. In the case of the church, the Holy Spirit chose the images

of sheep and shepherds to drive home an important point. Sheep

need shepherding care. The idea of sheep surviving on the open

range without competent shepherds protecting them is preposterous.

The image of sheep is not one of power and independence. Rather,

the reverse is true. Sheep are more closely associated with images



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of weakness, dependence and vulnerability. On the open range, the

shepherd stands between the sheep and certain destruction from the

elements. For someone living in Israel 2,000 years ago, the images of

bear, lion, wolf, rustlers, and steep cliffs were an easy association with

flocks of sheep. The idea of these flocks surviving without shepherds

care was unthinkable.

The Bible is clear in its use of the imagery of shepherds watching

over sheep. However, over time the biblical metaphor of shepherdsfor the flock has sometimes been replaced by the image of an officer

in a corporation or an officer of the state. But biblically, officers of the

church were thought of as shepherds of the flock, not executives of the

flock. The apostle Peter drives this point home in the fifth chapter of his

first epistle.

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of

Christs sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be

revealed: 2 Be shepherds of Gods flock that is under your care,

serving as overseers-not because you must, but because you are

willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager

to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being

examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears,

you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

1 Peter 5:1-4 (NIV)

The Form of Governmentof the ARPmakes this same point with

balance and with force in the descriptions of the offices of elder and

deacon noted above. This paragraph shows that the standards of theARP fully recognize the biblical mandate of elders to care for and

protect the precious flock that is the church. Because the Bible places

such importance on the offices of elder and deacon, it is easy to see why

officer training must be a top priority.

Likewise, the office of deacon was established by God to assist

the elders in this task of shepherding. Although particular emphasis

is placed on the deacons task of caring for the physical needs of a

congregation, there is also an important spiritual dimension to the office

of deacon. As you will see presently, the first deacons were called upon

to resolve a spiritual issue as well as a physical one.



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Officer Training

Leading and Caring for Christs Church - a manual for mobilization

This training manual has a particular focus on practical application.

The practical focus is drawn from the biblical descriptions on the

function of the two offices. In other words, the focus addresses the

question: biblically, what do elders do and what do deacons do?

However, there are two important underlying considerations that must

be understood to set this practical focus in proper biblical perspective.

The first is that this manual has much to say about the importance

of human relationship, in other words the horizontal relationships in the

life of a church officer. However, the important underlying foundation

is the reality of the vertical relationship, that is, the officers relationship

with God. The selection of an officer is something that is ultimately the

work of God. It is his church that is being cared for. All of our human

relationships must be seen in context of the great vertical relationshipthat has to do with God and His Son, the great chief Shepherd. The

officers primary focus must always be on how God is to be honored

and glorified. This is why Dr. George Scipiones book, Timothy, Titus

and You, is recommended as ongoing reading during the course of the

training process. There are many excellent works on knowing and loving

God. For the sake of brevity this manual has not dealt extensively on

this topic. However, the vital reality of caring and loving God foremost

is the basic foundation for any human endeavor. This focus is always

behind each of the particular points of study in this manual. Ones

training and experience as a church officer should always be an ever

deepening relationship of love and dependence upon the living God of

the Scriptures.

The second consideration is closely tied to this point. Good

relationships are build on sound doctrine that is an expression of love

to God. So, again, while the focus of this manual is on the practical

relationships that an officer faces sound doctrine must be equally

pursued. This is addressed in the particular weekly assignments that

make up the foundation of the course.

As in all things, biblical balance must be pursued. In this manual youare confronted with the importance of the horizontal relationships in the

officers life and with the importance of day to-day interaction of the

practical side of church life. However, the sharp focus on your vertical

relationship with God and the sound doctrine that should flow from that

relationship must never be lost.

Having said the above it is now time to get work in the challenging

and wonderful task of preparing to be an officer in the church of the

Lord Jesus Christ. Lets begin with Dr. Ross paper on Elders.



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P A P E R 1 | S E C T I O N 1

by Mark E. Ross, Ph.D. Associate Pastor, First Presbyterian Church Columbia, South Carolina

E L D E R S A S S H E P H E R D S O F

T H E C H U R C H O F G O D

Be on guard for yourselves and for all in 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

These words were spoken by the apostle Paul to the elders of the

church at Ephesus when he met with them at Miletus (Acts 20:17-38). It

was a most moving meeting. For about three years, Paul had ministered

to that church and now, while journeying to Jerusalem and confident

that these elders would see his face no more(v. 25), he wanted to bidthem farewell and remind them of their duties as elders to shepherd

the church of God.In brief, his exhortation charges them with looking

after the well-being of the flock, the people of the church.

Paul was well aware that the Ephesian church would come upon hard

times.

I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among

you not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men

will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples

after them. Acts 20:29-30

Against assault from without and destructive threats from within, the

elders are to guard themselves and the flock of God. Paul says they are

to shepherd the church of God.What does he mean by this? Just what

is involved in shepherding the flock of God?

The Greek word translated to shepherd in Acts 20:28 is poimanein.

The literal meaning of the verb is to tend a flock. When it is used with

respect to the care of people, the meaning of the verb is to protect,

care for, nourish. As we shall see, all these shades of meaning arepresent in the biblical discussion of shepherding.

While the dictionary and lexicon can be of some help to us in

understanding Pauls meaning when he urges elders to shepherd

the church of God, it is the Bible itself which gives us our clearest

understanding of what shepherding is. We turn first to the example and

teaching of the Good Shepherd Himself. Jesus said:

I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for



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the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, who is not

the owner of the sheep, beholds the wolf coming, and leaves the

sheep and flees and the wolf snatches them, and scatters them.

He flees because he is a hireling and is not concerned about the

sheep. / am the good shepherd, and I know my own, and my own

know me even as the Father knows Me and / know the Father; and

/ lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:11-15

Prominent in this passage is the idea of protecting the flock. Unlike

the hireling, who, when he sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep and

flees, the good shepherd stays to protect the sheep. He stays because

he is concerned about the sheep, while the hireling is not. If necessary,

and in the case of the Good Shepherd it was necessary, he will lay down

his life for the sheep. Most often, the sacrifice required of the shepherd

will not be so great; but this extreme supposition helps us to see the

basic idea more clearly: the good shepherd looks after the well-being

of the sheep, doing all that is necessary for their protection. Clearly

Paul had in mind the protection of the flock when he spoke to the

Ephesian elders at Miletus. He knew that savage wolves would come

in among the flock and that even from within the flock itself men will

arise speaking perverse things. Against such enemies the flock must

be protected, and it is the responsibility of the elders to protect them.

What they must guard the flock against, principally, are corruptions

either in doctrine or conduct. So far as they are able, they must see to it

that not one lamb strays from the fold, or falls victim to a wolf.

Another idea about shepherding that is important in this passage

and closely connected to that of protecting the flock is that the goodshepherd knows his sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know my

own... (John 10:14).Thegood shepherd is with his flock, going among

them to watch over them. He watches that no enemies enter into the

flock. When an enemy appears, he defends the flock. He looks to see

if there are any who are in need, or if any are missing. If he finds that

any are in need, he goes to help them. If he finds that any are missing,

he will go after the one which is lost, until he finds it. And when he has

found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing (Luke 15:4, 5).The good

shepherd, we can see, cares for the flock. But only the shepherd who

knows his sheep is really able to care for them. If the shepherd is to

defend the flock when he sees the wolf coming, he must be in a position

to see that the wolf is coming. He must know what is going on in the

lives of his people. I am the good shepherd and I know my own...

Not only does the good shepherd know his own; his own know him!

I am the good shepherd, and I know my own and my own know me. As

the flock will not know a shepherd who does not go among them, so the

flock will not follow a shepherd which they do not know.



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...he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To

him the doorkeeper opens; and the sheep hear his voice; and he

calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out. When he puts

forth all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him

because they know his voice. And a stranger they simply will not

follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice

of strangers. John 10:2-5

If the elder expects to lead his flock, he must be known to his sheep.

A stranger, Jesus says, they simply will not follow. Paul shows us how to

do it. His ministry in Ephesus was both public and from house to house

(v. 20). Each one, he says, he admonished with tears (v. 31). Always

his aim was to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. To

do so he went among them preaching the kingdom (v. 25). This builds

trust since the sheep can see that the shepherd does indeed care for

them. Without this visible demonstration of the elders concern and

commitment to the flock of God, leadership among the flock will be

severely curtailed: ...a stranger they simply will not follow...because they

do not know the voice of strangers.

In addition to protecting and caring for the flock, the elder must

also nourish the flock. The apostle Peter, like Paul, was concerned about

the shepherding ministry of the elders. He says, Therefore, I exhort the

elders among you, ...shepherd the flock of God...(I Peter 5:1, 2).Peter

was perhaps especially concerned about this ministry; after all, the Lord

Himself repeatedly exhorted Peter to this task. Three times the Lord

inquired of Peter, Simon, son of John do you love Me?Thenafter theinterrogations the Lord would exhort him, Tend My lambs ...Shepherd

My sheep...Tend My sheep (John 21:15-17).Afterexhorting Peter in this

manner, He revealed to Peter that like his Lord before him, he too would

lay down his life for the sheep. Then once again He called to Peter,

Follow Me! (John 21:19).

In Peters encounter with the risen Christ, the shepherds task in

feeding and nourishing the flock becomes prominent. Feed My lambs,

tend My sheep-this iswhat the Lord Jesus commanded Peter to do. But

how does the elder nourish the flock, how does he feed the lambs, and

tend the sheep?Certainly it is by nourishing the flock on the word of

God, the Holy Scriptures. See how this comes out in Pauls exhortation

to the Ephesian elders. Here Paul brings before them his own example

by which they may understand what their ministry is to be as elders and

overseers.

You yourselves know from the first day I set foot in Asia, how I

was with you the whole time, serving the Lord with all humility

and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the



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plots of the Jews, how I did not shrink from declaring to you

anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from

house to house. Acts 20:17-20

In Pauls shepherding of the flock at Ephesus, he reminded them

that he had been with them (v. 18). He served among them with all

humility. At times he even suffered for his ministry among them. Like

a good shepherd, he laid down his life for the sheep (v. 19). While hewas with them, he taught them, not failing to teach anything that was

profitable (v. 20). Later in the passage, he says that he did not shrink

from declaring to them the whole purpose or counsel of God (v. 27). In

v.31, he says that during the three years he was with them, he did not

cease to admonish each one with tears. in v.20, he indicates that his

teaching and admonishment were both public and from house to house.

Such were his efforts to nourish the flock. It is this example that he gives

to the elders of Ephesus.

Paul also gives a prominent place to the teaching role of elders when

he writes to Titus concerning the appointment of elders in the cities

of Crete. He writes to Titus saying that the overseer must be holding

fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, that he

may be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who

contradict (Titus 1:9).Exhorting in sound doctrine, refuting those who

contradict--this is how the elder is to nourish the flock. Because the

elder must nourish the flock in this manner, Paul insists that an overseer,

then, must be...able to teach (l Tim. 3:2).

As we have seen from the example and teaching of Jesus Christ and

the apostles Peter and Paul, elders are to beshepherds of the churchof God. In this capacity they are to protect, to care for, and to nourish

the flock of God. The shepherding ministry is thus an imitation of the

Lords ministry. It is shepherding the flock after the pattern of the Good

Shepherd Himself. In keeping with this, elders must knowthe flock. They

must care for those in need. Those who are lost, they mustseek out and

find. They must exhortin sound doctrine, and they must refute those

who contradict. And these things they must do, both publicly and from

house to house. The well-being of the church depends on it.

The preceding discussion will perhaps seem to confuse the duties

of elders with those of pastors, or ministers of the word, as they are

sometimes called. It must be remembered, however, that it is the elders

which Peter and Paul exhort to shepherd the church of God (Acts 20:17,

28; 1 Peter 5:2). Pastors share in these duties, to be sure; that is because

they too are elders. Peter exhorted the elders as a fellow-elder (I Peter

5:1). By insisting that it is the responsibility of elders to shepherd the

church of God, we have not meant to deny that pastors are to do this.

Yet we must be clear that this task of shepherding does belong to the



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elders. Pastors share in the task because they too are elders.

It isperhaps useful to point out here that the role of elders in

shepherding the church of God as derived from the Bible is in fact the

role of elders described in the Form of Government of the Associate

Reformed Presbyterian Church. Chapter VIII.B.2. of the Form of

Government states:

It is the responsibility of ruling elders, both individually and jointly,to guard and promote the spiritual welfare of the congregation.

They are required by their office to visit the people, especially the

sick, and pray with them, to comfort the sorrowing, encourage

the weak, guide the wayward and the careless and in general, to

discharge all other duties in Christian love.

In this paragraph are all the basic ideas of shepherding: protecting,

caring for, and nourishing the flock. If such a conception of the elders

role in the church seems to blur the distinction between pastors and

elders, this is only because we have failed to see the Biblical emphasis

upon the pastoral duties of elders.

It is most unfortunate that this emphasis has been so little

understood or appreciated in the contemporary church. Presbyterians,

who really should know better, seem to have been particularly guilty of

this. What we have on paper in our constitutional standards has been

much better than our practice. In practice we (perhaps unconsciously)

regard the session as something akin to a board of directors for

a corporation, as principally a decision-making body. The primary

responsibility of this board is then to set good overall policies for theorganization and to see to it that these policies are followed by those

chiefly responsible for carrying out the organizations work. Under this

structure the pastor functions as a chief executive officer, who together

with his staff carries out the decisions of the board. Clearly this is not

what we find in the scriptures. For it is unto the elders that Peter and

Paul say, Shepherd the church of God!Shepherding involves much

more than decision-making: it involves getting to know the flock,

watching over them, protecting them, caring for them, visiting them,

instructing them, comforting them, and so on. These are not duties that

can simply be delegated to the professionals. They are duties which

belong to the office of elder as such. It is what Christ calls elders to do.

Once we come to understand the office of elder as the Bible itself

teaches it, we see much more clearly the shepherding nature of this

office. We see too the immense honor it is to be called to this task, being

entrusted with the oversight of the flock of God. So one must enter

upon this work with the right motivation, and carry out the duties of this

office in the right manner. Thus Peter says to elders,



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...shepherd the flock of God among you, not under compulsion,

but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid

gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted

to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.

I Peter 5:2,3

Accepting the office of elder must be a voluntary act, one prompted

from a conviction of being called by God and not because one hasbeen pressured by others. This service must be rendered out of a desire

to be faithful to Christ in caring for his people and not because one

hopes to gain from it in a selfish manner. It is a task to be taken up with

eagerness, even though it is very demanding service to Him. It is also

a responsibility that must be carried out in humility, not lording it over

the flock, but leading from a posture of service and compassion. Such

is the calling of elders, and if the elders are careful to do these things,

Peter says that when the Chief Shepherd appears, they will receive the

unfading crown of glory (v. 4).

Long ago the Lord promised through Jeremiah as the prophet

looked forward to the day of salvation (Jer. 3:15): Then I will give you

shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and

understanding.Thatpromise Christ fulfills in His New Testament church.

So may the Lord our God look with mercy upon His church, and grant

unto us that which He has promised, and raise up for us leaders who will

be faithful to shepherd the flock of God, which He purchased with His

own blood. Soli Deo Gloria.

FIRST FRUITSis a publication ministry of the First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, South Carolina

All Scripture quotations are taken from the HOLY BIBLE: NEW AMERICAN STANDARD VERSION.

Copyright 1980, 1982, 1983, 1988, 1971, by THE LOCKMAN Foundation.



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Dr. Ross paper demonstrates biblically how the elders, in their

shepherding role, are to care for the church. Note well his summary

statement Once we come to understand the office of elder as the

Bible itself teaches it, we see much more clearly the shepherding nature

of this office. The church needs the shepherding care of ruling elders

just as surely as sheep in the field need the careful attention of their

shepherds.This aspect ofshepherdmust be woven into the instruction of elders

as they prepare to take their office. I Peter is clear, the elders must care

for the church. Obviously, the church will benefit from this care only

when it is actually given. Conversely, the church can only suffer when

this care is withheld. Proverbs 16:12 provides insight into the success

that a ruling elder will have in serving the church. This passage teaches

that a kings throne (or typically, any seat of human authority) will be

established by God as the king, or leader, pursues righteousness. That

is why Peter warns that elders should not lord it over their flock. Rather

they should care for the flock by pursuing righteousness, first for

themselves and then for the members. What does this caring look like?

Elders must know the needs of their sheep. They must have solid

relationships with the people that they serve. This rules out the sort

of leadership that is limited mainly to elders meetings and public

announcements that state: help is available if anyone wants it. Biblical

shepherding care is shown when elders are involved with and know the

needs of the sheep.

For example, in a church with a membership of 150 people, anywhere

from 40 to 60 individual family units will make up the churchsmembership. Is it unreasonable to say that each of those family units

should have some personal contact with a true shepherd once a week?

Clearly, this would not mean a personal sit down meeting each and

every week. But it would mean an elder being aware of who is and

who is not in church each week. It would also mean the elder making

personal contact at church and encouraging the family unit of his

concern and care. If a church this size had six elders, each elder would

have responsibility for seven family units or so. This does not seem to be

an impossible task--and actually, it is needed.

On the other hand, when you look at this question from the

standpoint of a single pastor, the task is impossible. Think of the

challenge of one man maintaining personal contact with 50 families

each week. That is practically impossible. Almost all of the pastors time

would be spent in trying to contact each family unit. Little else could be

accomplished. However, if the ruling elders are involved in making these

shepherding contacts, the task becomes achievable.

This is an important factor. As both the Form of Government and

Dr. Ross point out, shepherding is an occupation that cannot be carried



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out exclusively behind the scenes. The shepherds must actually see the

flock they are caring for and move to intercept problems that threaten

the safety and well being of a flock. In the 21st century, maintaining

and establishing good relationships with the members of the flock is

essential to the biblical task of shepherding. Being relationally aware

of the condition of the flock is the equivalent of standing on the hillside

and watching over a flock of literal sheep.

There is a direct by-product of this type of in-the-fieldshepherding.The sheepthat is, the members of the churchare more disposed

to use their discretionary time for activities that involve the church.

People enjoy spending time on activities that are not only rewarding in

themselves, but where they are appreciated. Each church has priorities

that extend beyond the amount of the church budget. That is, the

church has goals it wants to achieve, but there is not enough money to

pay for these immediately. One vital way to get more of these items

accomplished is to use the discretionary time of members. Asking

people to volunteer for church projects can be a daunting task. However,

in churches where the officers, and elders in particular, are deeply

invested in the lives of their members, more people will be willing, even

eager, to give of their time.

One might say that the success of a local church is tied directly to

the amount of discretionary time its members are willing to invest in

the work of that church. Please do not overlook the importance of this

reality. Imagine a scenario where the members come only to the Sunday

morning worship service and attend nothing else related to the church

and its mission. They only come and go. No one looks after them. The

members merely take up space in the pews. It is not a very pleasantpicture , is it?

Solid, caring, shepherding relationships will produce the climate

where people are willing to invest their free time for the good of the

church and her Lord. That is why this officer training manual training

stresses the vital area of relationships.

Following is an elder care list developed by Pastor Bill Slattery,

Redeemer ARP, in Moore, SC. This offers a practical example of what

shepherding care might look like in action.

Member Care Process

1. Notify each member who his shepherding elder is.

2. Over a one-month period be sure to get around to the

members on your care list during Sunday services.

3. If a member in an elders care group misses church twice in a

row call him.



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4. If a member in an elders care group begins to develop a

sporadic attendance pattern, call him or ask to meet with

himat his home.

5. Visit each member in your care group once a year. Either have

them in your home or ask to visit with them. Elders may pair

up for visitation. Dont wait until the last minute.

a. Ask them about their spiritual lives.

b. Ask them about church concerns.c. Concerns raised by members about the church or about

another elder should be reported to the session.

d. Read an appropriate scripture passage.

e. Pray for them

6. If a member seeks counsel concerning some significant issue,

notify that members assigned elder.

7. Hospital visitation

a. Pastor will visit them on a regular basis

b. Care group elder should visit at least once, depending on

length of stay.

8. Sick or shut in

a. Pastor - regular visitation

b. Care group elder periodic phone calls, cards, and visits

9. Meet with pastor for prayer concerning your group members

a. Sunday morning at 9:15 a.m.

b. Once every six weeks

Below is a set of questions that could be used for the elders annual

visit to the members home. This list is merely illustrative. It can bemodified to fit the needs of a particular church.

1. Has your experience at church met your expectations?

Failed to meet your expectations? Exceeded your

expectations?

2. What have you enjoyed most about being at our church?

3. Are there any particular things at church that are difficult for

you?

4. What do you think we could do better as a church?

5. Do you think that the gifts and abilities of your family are

being adequately used?

6. What could we do to help your family more than we are?

7. Do you have any questions about how the church functions or

operates?

8. What areas of study would you like to have available in the

near future?

9. Do you have any doctrinal questions that are unresolved for

you or that you would like to have addressed?



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10. Do you have any other questions or observations about the

church?

For a more detailed look at the biblical principles of elder care, read

The Elder and His Work, by David Dickson. This book has been edited

by George Kennedy McFarland and by Philip Graham Ryken of Tenth

Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The book is also

listed in the reference section of this manual. You will see the principledconnection to Pastor Slatterys concise list.

Both the book by David Dickson and the Member Care Process by

Bill Slattery reflect the powerful assertions by Dr. Ross that the elder

is first and foremost a shepherd. The Member Care Process is just

one example of how the care of ruling elders for the flock might be

structured. In this example, each member has regular, caring oversight

by an elder who has personal responsibility for him. This elder has a

regular schedule for reporting to the pastor how the members on his

list are doing. This, of course, does not preclude the pastor or other

elders being involved, but it does mean that each member gets regular

oversight. This is the point of being a shepherd. Perhaps you can recall

the time when it was commonplace for elders to make regular, formal

visits to the homes of their members to offer direct oversight into the

members family life. This practice is one that needs to be maintained,

or if needed, revived. Officer training is a good place to keep this

practice alive and well.

What are the real-life benefits of this of this type of care? People

tend to appreciate being known and cared for. This care brings about

loyalty and fidelity. People do not tend to stay at churches where theyare just another number, another occupant of a pew. Being cared for

by someone who takes a vital interest in their well-being carries a lot of

weight. That person will talk about his church to others. He will have

a tangible, personal reason to tithe. He will see that someone else

is willing to make an investment in his family beside himself. People

expect their pastors to be concerned, but having caring elders only

makes the bond with the church stronger. So, hands-on, in-the-field

elder care has many practical benefits.



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The Job Description of the Elder

We are now ready to consider the specific job description of a ruling

elder.

The official, particular job description of the office of ruling elder is

found in Chapter VIII of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Form of

Government. Here is the text of this chapter:

CHAPTER VIII

CONCERNING RULING ELDERS

A. DESCRIPTION AND QUALIFICATIONS OF A RULING ELDER

1. There were elders of the people for the government of the Old

Testament Church. Likewise in the New Testament Church, besides

the apostles and the ministers, there were elders who ruled.

2. To the office of ruling elder shall be chosen men of wisdom,

discretion, sound faith and Godly life, and who are qualified under

the standards recorded in Scripture.B. INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Ruling elders are chosen by voting members of the

congregation and are their immediate representatives. Together

with the ministers, they exercise government and discipline. They

oversee the spiritual interests both of the particular congregation

and of the Church generally when appointed to represent the

congregation in the higher courts. In all the courts of the Church

ruling elders possess the same authority and the same eligibility

to office as ministers.

2. It is the responsibility of ruling elders, both individually

and jointly, to guard and promote the spiritual welfare of the

congregation. They are required by their office to visit the people,

especially the sick, and pray with them, to comfort the sorrowing,

encourage the weak, guide the wayward and the careless, and, in

general, to discharge all other duties in Christian love. Although

ruling elders do represent congregations by election, they are to

seek the will of God in all church court decisions.

Drawing from this description, you can conclude the that theelder is first of all to provide loving leadership by building powerful

relationships. This theme was also established by looking at the

implications of shepherding, as Dr. Ross noted in his paper. Here are a

number of passages which emphasize the relational aspect of being an

elder.

For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that

when present I need not use severity, in accordance with the



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authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for

tearing down. 2 Corinthians: 13:10

Pauls emphasis here is to build up, not to tear down. That is why

officers have authority to build up the members. Acts 20:1738,

especially verse 20

You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, howI was with you the whole time, 19 serving the Lord with all humility

and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the

plots of the Jews; 20 how I did not shrink from declaring to you

anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from

house to house, Acts 20:18-20

Note how Paul cared for the church. He taught them, counseled

them, ate with them, protected them, provided for them, endured

persecution for them, prayed for them showed them by his actions

what Christs love for them was like. Notice also how the church cared

for Paul. This service of building up the flock provided loyalty to God

and people who gladly followed their leaders.

2shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not

under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God;

and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; 3 nor yet as lording it

over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to

the flock. I Peter 5:2-3

Consider the relational highlights in this passage, which describes the

conduct of a loving shepherd. Elders are to be:

caring

serving because of willingness

not eager for money, but for service

not lording it over, but being examples

Hebrews 13:1717Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over

your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this

with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.

NASU

The labors of an elder are to be labors of joy. Once again the Holy

Spirit has chosen to stress the relational component of leadership.

These passages are foundational to an in-the-field approach to

the office of ruling elder. The book of Philemon shows the impact of



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focusing on biblical relationships in leadership.

Paul was a powerful leader because he built and encouraged

powerful relationships in the church

The book of Philemon is a wonderful example of how Paul used the

power of relationships to serve and care for the flock. Notice the appeal

of Paul to Philemon regarding his servant.

Philemon 8-168 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do

what you ought to do, 9 yet I appeal to you on the basis of love. I then,

as Paul an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus 10 I

appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in

chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful

both to you and to me.12 I am sending him who is my very heart back to you. 13 I would

have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in

helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14 But I did not want

to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be

spontaneous and not forced. 15 Perhaps the reason he was separated

from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good

16 no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is

very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother

in the Lord. NIV

Paul writes an appeal of love that he knows will make an impact on

Philemon. Too often when churches and sessions have to rely on an

order or a command only, there is a weakness in the church and strifemay indeed be present. However, Paul relied on love and his in-the-field

shepherding to urge Philemon to a course of love and compassion.

Surely, this has significant implications for the type of elder care to be

done in your church.

Next we see Pauls challenge to the Philippians in 1:27-28:

Paul says the church should be one in spirit, contending as one man.

This unity would be a sign to their opponents that the church will

succeed. Cf. Eph. 4:3.

Thus again, we see Pauls success as a leader is that he built and

encouraged strong relationships in the body of Christ!

Paul wove the teaching of doctrine, the use of effective bureaucracy,

commandments for Christian living, and love and service to Christ into a

relational fabric that made the church resilient and loving. This church

went on to spread throughout the known world in the following century.



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Working definition for the office of elder

Therefore, here is a working job description (in distinction from the

qualifications) for an elder:

To build biblical relationships, through loving leadership, that

result in the care, protection and growth of the church.

The elder accomplishes this by authoritatively leading,

shepherding, disciplining, and modeling. This authority is to be

lovingly administered with patience, knowledge, wisdom and self-

sacrifice.

The elders must first model among themselves the relational

qualities that Paul demonstrated before they can faithfully lead

Gods flock. Sessions that do not trust each other, love each

other, and sacrifice for each other will not produce the Philippian

spirit of being able to contend as one man for the faith of theGospel. Therefore it is vital that each individual session, each

group of elders, work together to maintain strong relationships

with each other. In each church there are challenges. Not all of

the members of the session may agree what to do on a particular

point. But they can all love each other, care for each other, pray

for each other and serve each other. When this is done the

difficulties that arise when there are disagreements can be faced

with a spirit of unity rather than discord.

Implications

Because each local church is different, the specific descriptions may

vary from church to church. However, all officers share in common the

general descriptions given in Scripture. One important implication is to

realize that biblically successful churches run on a relational engine.

A church that is successful is one in which its people sacrificially

give of their discretionary time, energy and money in order to see their

church prosper

Elders, as leaders of the church, must model the power of biblical

relationships to the church.

Pauls dynamic relational example to the Ephesian church in Acts 20

forms the model for elders.

Under this dynamic:

Authorityis placed in its proper context (not lording it over

the flock)

Teaching is for the practical purpose of building relationships



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that honor God

Discipline is seen as a loving, necessary tool for protecting the

flock

Doctrine becomes the framework and structure that fosters

good relationships

Administrative tasks that benefit and facilitate the

strengthening of relationships are, therefore, seen as a

blessing

The significance of the practice of biblical

relationships by church officers

Following are three papers which emphasize this relational theme.

These relational sections will be valuable for both elders and deacons.

However, their implementation will be most successful if they are first

embraced and modeled by the elders. These three relationship papersform an integral and distinctive part of this manual. Carefully study the

biblical realities that these papers address. Together they form the basis

for building solid, biblical relationships that have the power to transform

your church into a vital testimony to Christs love. Let the words of

Christ in John 13:34-35 speak to your heart and to those you are training.

These three papers address love, listening and speaking, and their

relationship to leadership. Here is the first one:



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L O V E A N D L E A D E R S H I P

It is not exactly breaking news that love is a dominant theme in the

New Testament. However, sometimes that which is most vital fades fromprominence simply because it is so obvious. Love is that way. Jesus

states the role of love forcefully to his disciples in John 13:34-35

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another,

even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By

this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love

for one another.

All men will know that you follow Christ if you love each other just

as He commanded. This is no less true for officers in the Church. Those

who lead must first love. The actions of leaders are often misinterpreted

by those whom they serve. However, the eager practice of love will help

foster a patient spirit among those who are led. Again, Christ is the

example. Mark Ross makes this connection vividly for us in his paper

on elders. He does it through examining the role of elder as that of a

shepherd. I have quoted this for you immediately below.

Against assault from without and destructive threats from within, the

elders are to guard themselves and the flock of God. Paul says they areto shepherd the church of God. What does he mean by this? Just what

is involved in shepherding the flock of God?

The Greek word translated to shepherd in Acts 20:28 is poimanein.

The literal meaning of the verb is to tend a flock. When it is used with

respect to the care of people, the meaning of the verb is to protect,

care for, nourish. As we shall see, all these shades of meaning are

present in the biblical discussion of shepherding.

While the dictionary and lexicon can be of some help to us in

understanding Pauls meaning when he urges elders to shepherd

the church of God, it is the Bible itself which gives us our clearest

understanding of what shepherding is. We turn first to the example and

teaching of the Good Shepherd Himself. Jesus said:

I am the good shepherd, the good shepherd lays down his life for

the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, who is not

the owner of the sheep, beholds the wolf coming, and leaves the

sheep and flees and the wolf snatches them, and scatters them.

He flees because he is a hireling and is not concerned about the



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sheep. / am the good shepherd, and I know my own, and my own

know me even as the Father knows Me and / know the Father; and

/ lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:11-15

Prominent in this passage is the idea of protecting the flock.

Protecting the flock is described by in part by Christ as laying down his

life for the sheep. This brings us to Christs definition of love found in

I John 3:16:

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life

for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. NIV

Following Dr. Ross point on shepherding, we are drawn to the

necessary conclusion that a good shepherd is a loving shepherd. Laying

down ones life defines being a shepherd. A shepherd then is one who

loves.

Please follow this important connection. An elder is to shepherd, or

tend to his flock. Dr. Ross demonstrates that from John 10 the example

of Christ. He is a shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. We know

from I John 3:16 that this is also a description of what love is. So here

is the connection that must not be missed: The elder/shepherd who

honors God is one who engages in the practice of love in caring for the

church. This simple statement has profound implications for the under

shepherds of the church.

The question now is, how does this work itself out in the everyday life

and practice of an officer? Let us consider some key passages on love

that illustrate the prominent place of love in the New Testament:

Matthew 22:37-4037Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and

with all your soul and with all your mind.38 This is the first and

greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: Love your

neighbor as yourself.40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on

these two commandments.

John 13:34-35

Quoted above

Ephesians 3:17b-19

And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may

have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and

long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this

love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the

measure of all the fullness of God.



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Ephesians 4:2, 15-162 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one

another in love.15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up

into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16From him the whole

body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament,

grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Colossians 3:14

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all

together in perfect unity.

I John 4:7-127Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.

Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and

only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is

love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son

as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so

loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever

seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love

is made complete in us.

Revelation 3:19

19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, andrepent.

These passages alone, studied in earnest, would revitalize the

ministry of many church officers. These passages represent just a sample

of the New Testaments teaching on love. Officers who model the

applications of the biblical teaching on love will be honoring Christ and

truly serving those entrusted to their care. It is, therefore, safe to say

that biblical love should clearly mark the life of the ruling elder and of

the deacon. So it is fair to ask, what does this love look like?

To find out lets look at I Corinthians 13:4-7 and see how these

directives impact the elder. Although the focus is on the elder in this

discussion, these truths are just as applicable for deacons.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast,

it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily

angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in

evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts,

always hopes, always perseveres.



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Here is a phrase-by-phrase examination of Pauls description of just

what love is in this passage as it relates to church leadership.

Patient

The elder is to be patient with his people. Patience helps make one

approachable. Patience helps the elder not to make snap judgments,

but to listen carefully. A patient elder is one who will work with thosewho are struggling, just as Christ is patient with us when we struggle. A

working definition of patience is living in the expectation of Gods care.

Certainly, elders desire for the church to live this way. Elders, therefore,

have the mandate to model this for their congregations Philippians 4:9).

A patient leader encourages others to come to him. One other note

regarding patience: People often say, My patience is wearing thin,or I

am running out of patience. If you can run out of it, then most likely it

is not Gods patience. Patience, like love, is a fruit of the Spirit. God will

always give you what you need of his wisdom and fruit.

Kindness

Kindness is equally important. We live in a world that is hurting. Your

members often go out into this world each week and come under attack

for their association with Christ. Kindness is needed to reassure the

flock that Gods leaders really do care for them. Kindness means that

gentleness will be evident rather than a judging spirit.

Love does not Envy:

Sometimes there are members in the congregation who appearto be much better off financially (and in other ways) than the elders .

Situations exist where the leaders might be tempted to think it is not

fair for them to put forth so much energy when one who is well off

appears to put forth almost no effort to help the church. This is the trap

of envy. Gods leaders must not fall into it. Look carefully at Luke 12 and

be thankful that you have a purse that will not wear out. It is difficult to

minister to someone if you are envious of what you think he has.

It does not Boast

A boastful spirit is seen in one who reminds everyone far and wide

that he is an elder. An elder seldom needs to announce his authority or

position. This calls attention to himself in a way that is not healthy. The

qualities of leadership should be evident to others without the leader

having to remind them that they are in charge. Those who have risen to

the important office of ruling elder have done so by the grace of God

there is nothing to boast about.

It is not Proud



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Pride and boasting are related, but notice carefully that pride can be

subtle. James 4:4-6 indicates that friendship with the world is hatred

towards God. Gods elders must not use the worlds ways to lead Christs

church. One way to view pride is doing things your wayas opposed to

doing things Gods way. Humility is doing things Gods way even if the

world and conventional wisdom say otherwise. Therefore, the elder must

seek Gods ways in humility. To some, practicing church discipline may

seem like a prideful activity. But if this is what God commands, then itis really an action of humility. Church discipline is never pleasant, but

when it is called for, it pleases God. To determine not to follow a biblical

teaching because of hard consequences may appear to be humble, but

in reality it is going your own way, which is the way of pride. Following

pride (that is, doing what you want) makes you a friend of the world.

This is something that elders must avoid at all cost.

It is not Rude

Rudeness often flows from a misplaced sense of self-importance.

In other words, it is easy to give the impression that you are too busy

to spend the time necessary to really care for your members. God has

placed those in your church under your care because He wants you to

serve them. As II Corinthains 13:10 notes, the purpose of authority is to

build up, not tear down. Treating church members rudely may mean that

they will be reluctant to come to their shepherds when they really need

help.

It is not Self-seeking

This one should be obvious. As we observed from the passagesquoted above, love is about laying down your life for someone else.

Therefore, being an officer is not about you it is about those whom

God has called you to serve. This can be illustrated in several ways.

However, for right now, lets take just one example. It is the night of the

big game. You have been waiting for this for weeks. The phone rings

right at kick-off. One of your members is struggling with something that

you have been helping him with. You see his number on the caller ID.

You think how easy it would be to let the answering machine get this

call and you will call him back after the game. This is the essence of self-

seeking as opposed to God-seeking. It is a tough choice as you stare at

the ID. This is what love means in leadership. Love is not self-seeking.

After the brief struggle you gratefully pick up the phone, because it is

what God has called you to do.

It is not easily angered

This is an important element of love. Ephesians 4:2 tells you to bear

with one another in love. This means that there will be reasons to bear.

James tells you to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become



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angry. An interesting reality in life is that the closer you become to

other people the more evident their faults are to you. Those who are

married know more about their spouses faults than they did when they

first got married. The same is true for elders. The worldly response

is to become increasingly frustrated and angry with your increased

knowledge of others faults. However, God does not want His elders, His

shepherds, to be angered easily. This means the elders focus must be

upon God. Once again, a short temper will make you unapproachable asan elder, and thus keep you from doing what God has called you to do.

If you find yourself becoming increasingly angry, go to your other elders

and get help. A short fuse is not love.

It keeps no record of wrongs

This is closely related to not being easily angered. Keeping a list

of things that others have done to you is a sure recipe for anger. This

is a challenging aspect of love. It is tied to biblical forgiveness. As an

elder you must be discerning about the spiritual needs of the individual

members of your church. However, you must not carry with you a list of

all the things that someone has done to fail you or others. Love covers

a multitude of sins. Peter and Paul agree here. If there are unresolved

issues where forgiveness needs to be extended to you or others, then

take steps to resolve the issue. If not, then practice the way of love and

do not keep a record of wrongs.

It always:

Dont miss the word always here. Absolute statements like this one

show the importance of the directive. Always means no exceptions.Thus, love means protecting, trusting, hoping, persevering are to be

constant, not occasional, qualities of the one who loves.

Protects

A shepherd protects his flock. People who perceive that they are

protected will tend to follow much more easily. The post-modern age in

which we live brings new threats that will need to confronted. To protect

your flock you have to know them and their vulnerabilities. While elders

meetings are important, there must be more than meetings in order

to adequately protect the flock from a hostile world. If you protect

someone, that means that you care about that person. This is what is

meant here for elders. Protect, love your flock.

Trusts

This is an under-used aspect of love. Love means trust; not blind

trust, but trust nonetheless. If you have spent the time to instruct,

care, invest, and give yourself to the members of your congregation,

then trust them to follow through with what you have given them. If



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they fail to follow through, that will become evident to you and them.

But initially, to love means that you should trust those under your care.

Active trust in others is a vital ingredient in building relationships.

Hopes

Like trust, hope is something that builds relationships. God wants

you to think the best and anticipate good things from your flock. Paul

expresses this hope repeatedly in his epistles. Another way to sumup the impact of love is to realize that love thinks the best, not the

worst. Love is building. If doubt, skepticism, or cynicism dominate your

opinions of those under your care, you will help build in those same

attitudes toward you. The elder must always be on the lookout to see if

people are heading in the wrong direction. However, your primary calling

as an elder is not try to figure out negative motivations and doubt. Your

primary calling is to look for the best, anticipating that your teaching

and the teaching of your pastor is bearing fruit. In short,love means that

you hope for the best.

Perseveres

The office of elder is not for the faint of heart. Exercising leadership

means exercising perseverance, or in modern terminology, hanging in

there. Spiritual growth is not instantaneous. It takes time for a seed to

grow to a mature plant. God wants you, as an elder, to persevere while

the growth process runs it course. To bring a plant to the point where

it bears fruit takes all of the qualities of love that we have just covered.

Temporary setbacks will be frequent. The outcome will not always

appear bright or assured. However, God wants you to show love bypersevering until fruit is produced. He wants you to take the long-term

view. The 21st century is an age of the instant, the immediate. Spiritual

growth is one of patience and perseverance. Dont miss this important

element of love.

Perhaps now we have a clear understanding of what it means to be a

shepherd, one who lays down his life for his sheep. Love is demanding,

but love is freely given to those who seek it. The role of an officer is

demanding. However, God has given love as a powerful weapon to

protect His flock.

To take full advantage of what the Bible says about love and

leadership, carefully study the passages about love discussed in this

section . Meditate upon them and make application to your own life and

ministry. If you are entering this office for the first time, make careful

application to your own life so that you can follow the instruction of the

apostle Peter to shepherd Gods flock.

2 Be shepherds of Gods flock that is under your care, serving as

overseers not because you must, but because you are willing, as



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God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3

not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to

the flock.

There is no better way to be an example than to show biblical love to

those you lead.

The next paper is on listening and leadership. Good listening has

become a lost art. The Bible has much to say about listening, as youshall see.



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L I S T E N I N G A N D L E A D E R S H I P

If an elder or deacon is to work effectively with those whom he

serves, these folks must be persuaded that they are being heard by their

elder or deacon. Acquiring the skill of good listening is a challeng. Being

a biblical listener is a prerequisite being an effective officer.

James 1:19 states that all must be quick to listen.

Perhaps the greatest challenge of learning to be a good listener is

understanding that it requires love to listen. In the previous section you

saw how important biblical love is to being a biblical leader. Love means

that you put the needs of others before your own. Practically speaking,

this means it is important to close your mouth and open your ears. This

action offers tangible proof of your desire to serve.

The book of Proverbs is a rich resource for church officers. One

of the goals of this course is to expose new officers to this valuable

resource. Below are several proverbs that directly address the value of

being a good listener. Examine these passages from the vantage point

of being a loving leader who listens.

Proverbs 17:27-2827A man of knowledge uses words with restraint,

and a man of understanding is even-tempered.28 Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent,

and discerning if he holds his tongue. NIV

There is always danger in saying too much. The caution here is not

simply to avoid saying bad things. More to the point, it is making sure

that what you say is useful to your hearer. In order to do that, you

must listen first. Ephesians 4:29 teaches that your words must benefit

those who hear them, according to their needs. Listening carefully and

speaking sparingly indicates a genuine interest in others. The goal in

any leadership situation is always to bring Gods wisdom to bear. This

takes careful thought and deliberation. Thus Proverbs teaches that a

man who has this knowledge is restrained in his speech. The parallelism

of verses 27 and 28 forcefully illustrates that restrained speech is so rare

that even a fool appears wise if he just keeps his mouth shut! So, this is

a good place for those in leadership to begin. Restrained speech is an

indication of wisdom in action. You cant listen when you are speaking.

Proverbs 18:2

A fool finds no pleasure in understanding



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but delights in airing his own opinions.

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