Title (1 Peter 5:1-6) Elders and Humility
Contents Ecclesiasts 5:1-6 Elders and Humility
We have a second ballot for elders. If there is one thing that church leaders need most, what would it be? The message of today's text is to "be humble" elders. I hope you choose humble elders.
1. Who is the elder? (Verses 1-2)
1) They are the saints who testify to the suffering and glory of Christ, that is, the gospel (verse 1).
2) Those who have been entrusted with the spiritual authority to shepherd the flock of God (verse 2).
The members of the church are not their own flock. The members of the church are the flock of God. In verse 3, the Greek word for ‘one in charge’ (kleiros) means ‘the Lord’s inheritance’, that is, ‘the Lord’s property. It is evil to think of them as one's own. Therefore, elders should know that the saints are not ‘my sheep’ but ‘God’s flock’. You must also know that Jesus Christ is the only Chief Shepherd. Together, they are ‘equal elders’ who have been delegated authority by the Chief Shepherd.
2. An elder must serve the saints in the following manner and manner (verses 2-3).
1) It must be done “not by compulsion, but voluntarily according to the will of God.”
2) “Do not do it for unclean gain, but do it willingly.”
3) “Do not take an attitude of claiming to those in charge, but set an example for the flock.”
It is a very terrifying sin to take the position of claiming the saints as one's own. We must be vigilant against spiritual abuse. We must use our delegated authority by setting an example for God's flock.
3. Elders and saints are to serve “one another with humility” (vv. 5-6).
The phrase “gird your loins with humility” refers to the incident (John 13:1-11) when Jesus girded his loins with a towel while washing the disciples’ feet.
1) Elders must “girdle their loins with humility” and serve the saints like a shepherd.
“The elders who rule well are to be regarded with double honor, especially those who labor in word and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17). “No lawsuit against an elder shall be taken unless there are two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19).
2) Saints must also acknowledge and obey the spiritual authority entrusted to the elders.
“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me” (Matthew 18:5).
To admit this is humility. It is pride to not admit this. God with mighty hands says that if we understand and obey this, we will receive God's grace and exaltation. In the church, spiritual authority is the channel of spiritual blessing. Like David (1 Samuel 26:9; 2 Samuel 1:14), I hope that your spiritual eyes will be opened to see this.