The elders certainly have their work cut out for them! It is sobering for a man to take on the task of overseeing and shepherding God’s flock. It is certainly no easy task. It will stretch any man to grow in ways he previously had not even thought about. It is dealing with people! Not an easy task. It can even mean correction and reproof – something that is very hard to do and do effectively! God want-ed a plurality of men appointed as elders. It is not one-man rule. In fact, each elder, himself, would be subject to the “eldership.” Much has been said about the elders and their work, but what about the members and their relationship to the elders?
Hebrews 13:17 directs attention of the readers to the relationship of the flock to the shepherds. “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
This passage starts by saying obey and submit. Isn’t this the only way to have orderliness in a congregation of God’s people that has elders? No, this passage does not give the elders the right to legislate, changing what God teaches. However, there are a multitude of things that are open to judgment and the overseers would then be tasked with a decision. This could include everything from the time we meet on Sunday to leading the congregation in church discipline. No the elders are not perfect in their judgment, but I have observed over many years the collective wisdom of the eldership. I have especially witnessed it at Eastern Meadows. I am glad these men serve us as elders. It makes ―obey and submit‖ much easier.
Further this passage tells us that they watch for our souls! As I previously mentioned correction and reproof are difficult things to do, even if a man is tasked to do this and elders are! But it is also difficult to be corrected, isn‘t it? When I already have the attitude of submit and obey, it is easier for me and the elders.
Another passage that directs attention of the readers to the relationship of the flock to the shepherds is 1 Thessalonians 5:12 ESV. Paul says, “We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you.” The word ―respect‖ is translated by the KJV and NKJV “know.” It is translated by the NASB “appreciate.” So, know them, respect them, and appreciate them. All of this begins with “know.” Yes, the shepherd should know the sheep, but the sheep are supposed to know the shepherds!
Additional passages to consider are 1 Thessalonians 5:13 and 1 Timothy 5:17.
Brethren, let us do our part!
Steve Housley is a former Pulpit Minister for Eastern Meadows Church of Christ.
