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TITLE: Leaders and the congregation
TEXT: 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13
PROPOSITION: Leaders must have the respect of the congregation.
QUESTION: How?
KEY WORD: Ways
SCRIPTURE READING: Same

  1. This sermon will focus on the obligation we (the local church) have toward all in positions of authority in the church.
  2. Leaders must have followers. No followers = rebellion.

Know them. (12)
  1. Know them by name, by their example, their life
  2. Know them - trust their judgments and decisions
  3. Know them - able to talk with them about problems or suggestions

Esteem them highly in love (13)
  1. More than know them - appreciate them for the work they do.
    1. Elders - calls in middle of night, prayer, searching for wisdom
    2. Deacons - getting workers, what is best to do, hours spent
  2. Love them for their care, concern, dedication to the family of God

Submit to their decisions (1 Timothy 5:17; Hebrews 13:17)
  1. Submit = give in, yield, be in subjection, allow their will to prevail over ours
  2. NOT - because they are dictators who "rule with iron hand"
  3. BUT - because the are watching for our souls, have our best at heart

Obey them (Hebrews 13:17)
  1. Obey = follow
  2. Failure to obey an elder, or deacon = rebellion against God

Receive not accusations against them (1 Timothy 5:19)
  1. Very cautious here - not to stir up trouble in the church
  2. Make sure of the facts - 2 or 3 witnesses
  3. Elders and deacons sin - as we all do - repent and seek forgiveness
  4. Do not expect perfection - you will be disappointed

Imitate them (Hebrews 13:17)
  1. Follow their leadership - decisions, example, faith, morals
  2. Do not expect MORE of them than of yourself
  3. Not every deacon must be involved in every work
    1. Deacon over benevolence or building - not able to preach
    2. Deacon over youth - not able to repair plumbing or furnace

Call on them (James 5:14) [Include preacher, elders, and deacons]
  1. When in need - problem, struggle, need prayers, counseling, assistance
  2. When you have a question, suggestion, comment or criticism
  3. When you are willing to help in their area of work - volunteer!

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