WHAT
WE SHOULD EXPECT FROM OUR LEADERS
This sermon and the one this evening are
somewhat different in one interesting respect—the elders and I worked together
to develop their content. I personally appreciate very much their assistance
and support in addressing some of the most practical aspects of church life.
THE CHARACTER OF
LEADERS (Matt. 22:34-40; 7:12; Jn. 13:34-35; I Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)
1. They
are to be men of integrity (Phil. 2:15; Lev. 19:2; Matt. 5:48).
2. Honest
(Eph. 4:25; Lk. 8:15).
3. Trustworthy
(I Cor. 4:1-2; II Tim. 4:7, “I have guarded my trust”).
4. Having
the confidence that is found in faith (II Tim. 1:7, 12).
5. Christlike
(I Cor. 11:1; Rom. 8:29).
THE LEADERSHIP OF
LEADERS (Acts 20:17-35; Jn. 10:10-15)
1. They
are to provide Bible-based direction and care (I Pet. 4:11a; II Tim. 2:15).
a. Nourishing
with spiritual food (Eph. 4:14-15).
b. Bible
reasons given for decisions (Jn. 17:17; II Tim. 3:16-17).
c. Impartial
treatment for every member. (Mk. 12:14).
d. Both
protection and punishment (Titus 1:9-11).
e. Kindness
as their usual way of leading (I Thess. 1:5-12).
f. Not
“lording it over the flock” (I Pet. 5:3; Matt. 20:20-28).
g. Knowing
and Caring for every member (Lk. 15:1-10; Matt. 10:29-31).
2. As
they lead others they must be sure they study and grow also (Rom. 2:17-21a).
a. It
is easy when teaching others to forget the need to be taught.
b. Pride
lurks to ambush leaders in such things.
3. The
elders of the church are to lead as a team (Acts 14:23; I Tim. 4:14; III Jn.
9-10).
a. There
is no one man rule.
b. A
single elder has no authority apart from the eldership.
4. While
they are held accountable to a high standard by God, they are mere men, subject
to failings and mistakes (I Jn. 1:5-10).
a. This
reality must bring understanding from the congregation.
b. But
it must not be used as an excuse for a lack of commitment.
The responsibility God places upon those
who lead is not to be taken lightly. God has high expectations. Let each man
who accepts a role of leadership in the Lord’s church discharge his stewardship
faithfully.
Edwin
12/3/00
Return to "Sermon Outlines" Page