In the Gospel of John, Jesus declares Himself to be the Good Shepherd Who gave His own life for His sheep. And He has appointed elders to be caretakers and overseers to watch over His flock.
We tend to view the lists of elder qualifications in the Epistles as a "checklist" to identify elders in the Church. But if a man is not imitating Christ and living like Him, he is not qualified for the office. He must be like Christ – feeding and leading His sheep. He must feed them on a good diet of God's Word and promises, and he must lead them as he himself follows Jesus.
True elders are shepherds, not business boardmembers. Out of their love for God, they will love and care for His people. As they follow Christ, they will be examples for the flock. And when the Lord Jesus returns, they will receive an incorruptible crown of glory to take and lay at the Savior's feet! |
