WHAT
OUR LEADERS SHOULD EXPECT FROM US
This lesson is the companion to the one
this morning dealing with a leadership’s responsibility to a congregation. As
was true of the earlier lesson, this one was also developed in association with
the elders. Brethren, let us take heed to God’s revelation.
PERSONAL GROWTH AND
CONDUCT (Matt. 22:34-40; 7:12; Jn. 13:34-35; Eph. 4:17-32).
1. We
are to take Christianity seriously (Matt. 10:34-39; Rom. 12:1-2).
2. Be
devoted to study and prayer (Ps. 1:1-3; II Tim. 2:15; I Thess. 5:17).
3. Grow
in Christlikeness (Heb. 5:12-14; I Pet. 3:15; II Cor. 3:18).
4. Handle
problems in a Bible way (Matt. 18:15-17; Rom. 12:14-21).
5. Be
Christlike even when wronged (I Pet. 2:19-21).
OUR RELATIONSHIP TO
LEADERSHIP (Heb. 13:7-17)
1. Support
properly established programs (Eph. 4:16; Phil. 1:27; 2:5 15:2-3).
a. Methods
are largely matters of opinion.
b. No
decision our leadership reaches will be everybody’s favorite.
c. An
average quality method followed by brethren in singleness of heart will achieve
more success than a great method that meets resistance.
2. Make
constructive input to the elders (Rom. 14:19).
a. Be
proactive in letting leaders know things that are important to you.
b. Don’t
be a person who just complains, express appreciation and offer positive
suggestions as well.
3. Respect
is essential.
a. For
the office regardless of performance (Acts 23:1-5).
b. For
the individual as it is earned (Heb. 13:7).
4. Give
a reasonable, patient hearing before forming a negative opinion, allow benefit
of the doubt (I Cor. 13:7; Jas. 1:19-20).
5. We
are not to bring a charge against an elder except by when it is properly
witnessed (I Tim. 5:19-20).
a. Elders
are not above the law of God, but they must be dealt with biblically, even if
they are in sin.
b. Such
a thing should not be done lightly, neither should it be avoided if needed.
6. Let
the work of elders be a joy to them (Heb. 13:17).
When elders do their work well and the
congregation follows in a way pleasing to God, great things will happen!
Edwin
12/3/00
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