Men Who Are Able

We have looked at how elders are to be chosen based on meeting certain qualifications. We have considered how we are to choose men who are eligible, willing, and qualified. Today we look at choosing men who are able. The qualifications focus on both character and ability. Apt to teach is a reference to ability. This does not mean they are perfect. In thinking about ability we want to think about what the elder is to do. Their primary task is that they lead the flock by example. The men who say are to be men that do. We examine terms and tasks for the elder.

1. Reviewing terms used for the elder
   rule: 1 Tim 5:17; Heb 13:7
   oversight: Peter 5:2
   feed: Acts 20:28
   protect: Acts 20:29-31; Titus 1:9

2. Summarizing tasks of the elder
   We can summarize the above terms under two main roles

2a. direction
In light of these terms, we can say the elder is leader. He does not take this position on himself. God appoints him to it. A crucial aspect of their work is to give direction in terms of the function of the church. That lead to question of what church is to do. Primarily the church is a group of worshipers. The elders therefore are give direction to worship, evangelism, and preaching. They are to led the church in the proper outworking of all its functions.

2b. discipling
discipling involves two aspects

• the positive aspect of counsel
  They are to give counsel for the perfecting of the saints (Eph 4:13). There are some who give their entire lives so that they labor in scripture and teaching. But all elders have a duty to teach the word of God in some capacity

• the negative aspect of correction
  They are to warn them that are unruly (1 Thes 5:15).