These men, like the rest that are mentioned in Ephesians 4:11-ff were appointed by God to be teachers. They were no more a less a part of the church organizations than apostles, prophets, and evangelists. Because they had a household with children who were subject to them, they were living in a city that knew them and their family. They could have moved with their families to some other town, but that these men were known and respected teachers among them are clear.
Once again, the shepherds were soul watchers, not church decision-makers. These men taught the word and left a living example of their teaching. Keep in mind that in the first century, many gifts are granted through the laying on of the apostles’ hands. Many were already using those gifts as soon as they were granted. Yet, none of the gifts prevented the recipient from sin. Teaching truth did not guarantee sinlessness. They were still subject to sin and when they did (1 Tim. 5:20), after the proof of two or three witnesses, they were to be rebuked before all (saints). Nothing indicates that they had to leave town and start over because they had lost their influence. One thing that should be stressed is that any family member taken by sin is not publicized all over town. Again, that’s the carnal mind that is a common occurrence in local churches. The sins of my brethren stay “in house.” Secondly, their sin does not disqualify them from teaching. In fact, the best example that can be demonstrated is what is done when we do sin. There is no demotion or removal from their teaching position in the church. There is no position. There is no church — just family. You can fire a preacher and he will leave. You can demote an elder in a church. But, there’s no firing or demotion of family members in the called-out. Consider the following passages.
1. 1 Peter 5:2-3
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.
2. Hebrews 13:7 tells Christians to remember them, “considering the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” (ESV).
3. Acts 20:28 has Paul telling the Ephesian elders to shepherd the flock (another figure of speech for the ekklesia).