The Ministry of Elders:
Acts 14:18-23 important enough to risk his life for!
* Pastors – equip the saints (including elders) – without becoming the center of attention
* Elders – watch over the flock – it is a shepherding role.
1 Pet 5:1-4
Peter’s restoration (John 21) – not as apostle, but as a shepherd… feed my lambs…feed my sheep
Shepherd a different kind of leader – not like a board member but smells like sheep — intimate
Taking oversight being set up in a place for viewing things from a broader perspective
Voluntarily — not in this for personal benefit (money, power, notoriety, popularity
According to the will of God GOD appoints first, the elder confirms it in his/ her heart, then we lay hands
Not for sordid gain you’re not in this for personal benefit (money, power, notoriety,
But with eagerness This ministry is not one to be taken lightly – primary call in house.
Not lording it over the flock still a servant leader – like Jesus with the water bowl
But being examples…. A life worth following — follow me as I follow Christ
Hebrews 13:17 obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.
Covenant:
Here in the Presence of God, and in the presence of your fellow elders and the whole congregation of Hillside, do you now affirm your call to serve the flock of God and an elder? To provide a godly example of holy living, and of sacrificial servant-leadership? To provide oversight to the flock as a member of the team of elders God has assembled to watch over this house — walking and leading in mutual submission with your fellow elders? Will you now covenant to lead by practicing sensitivity and submission to the presence and direction of Jesus. Moment by moment abiding in His strength, peace, wisdom, life, and especially His love? Will you lead by surrendering all discernment, conversations, attitudes, plans, actions, reputation and authority to HIS authority and purposes for Hillside?
For the congregation
Will you now accept god’s call upon these men/ women, and honor them in the office to which they have been called? To make their leadership joyful, by remaining obedient to the Lord Jesus Christ, the Chief Shepherd, and willing to receive guidance, encouragement, and (when needed) correction from these elders? Will you pray for them, and hold them in a place of honor in your hearts as they today commit to the sacrifices which will be required to serve in this office?
COMMUNION
1 Cor 11
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