The importance of qualified elders can be seen in the character traits listed in 1st Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9, and 1st Peter 5:2-3 and a congregation should always be on the lookout for men who have matured and grown in the faith and have reached a point where they exemplify the traits listed in these passages. Elders provide oversight of the local church and keep watch over it as a shepherd watches over the flock (Acts 20:28). Elders are to be examples for the flock and if a man is unable to set a good example he is not qualified to serve in this role.
But it is also important to remember that the eldership is not designed nor supposed to do all of the work. Shepherding is the task of all members and it is important that the flock be “good followers” and this includes the elders because we are all followers of Christ. 1st Thessalonians 5:12-18 shows us what it looks like to be a good follower, not a follower of men but a follower of Christ Jesus. This week we will take a closer look at this passage and see what we can learn and apply. Praying everyone has a blessed week.