INTRODUCTION:

1. We are considering appointment of elders to the church here.

2. They will share the load as shepherds.

3. They will NOT be 2 or 3 individuals in rowboats.

4. They will be an elder “ship”.

5. You, as members, will have some duties toward these men.

DUTIES OF MEMBERS TOWARD ELDERS

1. Know them that labor among you and are over you 1 Thessalonians 5:12

   1. Be acquainted with them; learn them; let them learn you.

   2. Honor them, esteem them; Respect them.
      
       

2. Be in submission to them Hebrews 13:17

   1. Submit means – “Yield to” To place yourself under

   2. This does not mean they are dictators – “lords over the flock”

   3. It does mean that they care for your soul and seek what is best for this church

   4. ”Placing membership” means I will be active in this church, submit to the elders
      
       

3. Imitate them Hebrews 13:7

   1. Conditional – As they follow Christ – 1 Corinthians 11:1

   2. Follow their Faith; Example; Leadership

   3. Observe their – Love; Liberality; Attendance; Work for the church
      
       

4. Remember them Hebrews 13:24

   1. Honor those who served in the past

   2. Appreciate the struggles of the past for us to reach the present
      
       

5. Do not receive an accusation against them 1 Timothy 5:19

   1. It is easy to pick flaws; Gripe; Not understand a decision.

   2. Elders can make mistakes. If it is a valid objection – raise it.

   3. Be careful not to listen to every “gripe” or “gossip” concerning them.
      
       

6. Call for them James 5:14

   1. James places the responsibility on you to call them.

   2. Sick (physical or spiritual) – They can:

      1. Pray – James 5:16

      2. Anoint with oil (give an aspirin, make comfortable, relieve pain)
         
          

7. Be at peace among yourselves – 1 Thessaloninas 5:13

   1. There is no greater help you can give to the elders than to be at peace – no quarreling, fighting, bickering

   2. We will reach the world IF we love one another – John 13:35