Elders rule as leaders, not as bossesHebrews 13:17“Obey your leaders and be submissive” (Berry)“Obey your leaders and submit to them” (ESV and NASB)“Obey the ones leading you and submit” (Nestles)I Timothy 3:4-5- There is a parallel between the way a father rules a house and the way an elder leads a congregation.I Peter 5:2-3- An elder is to rule like a shepherd rules a flock.Luke 22:25-26- All Christians and especially elders are to lead through service.In what realm do elders rule?In matters of faith, they lead the flock in the authorized functions, without falling short or going beyond.In matters of judgment they lead the flock to harmonious decisions; they do not make unilateral decisions and demand that the flock obey.Elders are watchmen (Hebrews 13:17Duties of watchmen seen in Ezekiel 3:17Hear God’s word.Give the people warning.Elders will give an account for how they did or did not do their duty as watchmen (Hebrews 13:17.Elders rule by watching, warning, and admonition.The scope of elders’ ruleThe flock (Acts 20:28Elders rule in all affairs of the church over which they are overseers.Elders who rule well will receive a crown of glory (I Peter 5:4Elders who do not rule well will give account to God (Hebrews 13:17
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