In the past years, I used to come down hard on the shepherds of God’s flock who have become careless, undisciplined, and negligent. I would compare many to Isaiah’s description of blind watchmen, who know nothing or like “dumb dogs unable to bark, dreamers lying down, who love to slumber” (cf. Isaiah 56:9). But, then…
The shepherds also watch for false teachers and any of Satan’s devices whereby sheep are led away from God. They “watch for your souls” (Heb. 13:17). Just as a physical shepherd protects against wolves, these shepherds protected against wolves in sheep’s clothing. How do you suppose he protects against wolves? To answer this we must…
Regarding their role as “rulers”, they “rule” by teaching and setting themselves forth as an example. Taken in the negative, anyone who does not labor in word and teaching does not rule well. Paul is commending and recognizing real excellence among elders who rule well as opposed to those who merely do the least amount…
1 Timothy 5:17 reads, “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” The word translated “especially” (malista) is the superlative of a word translated “very much” (mala). The word, malista may also be translated “most of all” or “particularly.” In modern Greek, it…
The thought expressed in the phrase “apt to teach” suggests that the shepherd is to be skilled in teaching. According to Meyers, he is “one who possesses everything that fits him for teaching, including also the inclination or the willingness.” [1] While being “apt to teach” does not prevent others from teaching, it certainly includes…
The term was applied to Yahweh in the Old Testament. He is depicted as leading his flock to pastures (Jer. 50:19), and securing places for them to rest by the waters (Psalms 23:2; Isa. 49:9-10). He carries the lambs in his bosom (Isa. 40:11) and protects his flock with his staff (Ps. 23:2). Jeremiah also…
The simple plan that contains the “tradition of the apostles” requires a commitment of souls who give themselves as a living sacrifice, each committed to fulfilling their work of edifying the body of Christ. Where such souls are found in a community, the called-out class of people is in that community. Where such souls are…
With the results of Wycliffe’s translation of “ekklesia” being “congregation,” the Protestant influence did nothing to change the flawed concept of the “ekklesia.” The idea of “congregation” formed an additional relationship with a membership that included the common man and the professional clergymen who were more educated and knowledgeable than the common man. This is…
Not only are the modern-day elders or shepherds confused when their roles are blurred, but preachers can also be out of place, too. These men are dispensable outsiders who fit the pattern of modern “pastors” with all the trimmings. The demands and expectations are high and, often, impossible to meet. He is expected to be…
Our primary purpose in this section is to emphasize that the effect of professionalism is counter-productive. First, when applied to the first century, it would have hindered the role of shepherds whom God has given to equip the saints for service. Second, it would hamper the participation of other members in the body, both then…