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Ephesians 4:7-16 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7

Someone you can turn to

Reflecting on my past there have been several people who have significantly helped, taught, shaped, mentored, comforted and counselled me. Many have been godly elders who have invested themselves in me.

Stephen was my pastor when Michele and I were not long married. He was an older man who I looked up to, with very strong pastoral gifts. He encouraged me ever so patiently to consider entering into the ministry. He as a man I felt I could turn to at any time.

We can help

Peter was my pastor when I studying theology. He spent a lot of time with me teaching me to project my voice, discussing at length theological doctrine, controversies and issues. He was both my pastor, my mentor and my friend.

Today we have David Niven, a pastoral giant with a wise head on his shoulders and Nick Prins our esteemed encourager who is our highly capable helper on sesion and CoM. The time has come for us to elect two more elders, young men who have shown godly character, leadership qualities and an ability to teach.

These young men will be embraced by us as a congregation as we train them theologically and pastorally. They will be discipled and mentored by your current elders. Each brings quality gifting. Dan like his Dad, steady, I’ve never seen him in a flap. He is a capable and logical thinker who has a heart for God’s people and their walk with Jesus. Ming has a growing interest in pastoral care/ biblical couselling. He has demonstrated proven potential as a preacher and leader of the music team.

May God bless us as we consider who we nominate, train and elect as elders. the Rev

Eldership: Choose Wisely

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:11-16  and 1 Timothy 3:1-7

Exercises

• Discuss what kind of desire a man should have for eldership 1 Tim 3:1 & 1 Pet 5:2-3.

• Explore why the emphasis is more on character rather than ability 1 Tim 3:2-7.

• Discuss in what different context an elder should be able to teach 1 Tim 3:2 

• Discuss the significance of an elder having a godly family 1 Tim 3:4-6.

Prayer: Heavenly Father we thank you for the elders you have provided our church. We pray that you will give them wisdom as they oversee they seek to encourage our growth in Christ. Protect their marriages and families as they can come under spiritual attack. Enable us to encourage them as they seek to encourage us to better live the gospel in the specifics of our daily life. Bless the training of our new elders.  Amen