We will see that the description of the men God gave the ekklesia in Ephesians 4:11 overlap each other. For example, the role of apostles, shepherds, and teachers share not only the responsibility to teach, but they were also qualified to lead by example. While their primary role is that of teaching, we assume that such teaching is done by lecturing, not by example. Yet, the greatest teacher is the personal applications seen in the lives of these men. Paul’s own example is displayed before the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 11:1-2 when he tells them to imitate his own example that he left as a pattern. The thought starts in the last verse of chapter ten, where he uses himself as an example of seeking the salvation of others rather than pleasing himself. The Corinthians were carnally minded (1 Cor. 3:1) and had exercised personal liberties without considering its effect on others. Paul states that he would never eat meat again if it caused a brother to stumble (1 Cor. 8:13). This is part of the teaching that is “handed down” (tradition). He would later add, “Remember me in all things” and proceeds to hand down the will of God regarding headship.
The work of elders involves the same thing (Hebrews 13:7). The Hebrew passage reads, “whose faith follow (or “imitate”), considering the end of their behavior.” Peter explains that they are to be “ensamples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3). No one should be left to doubt what they should do or how they may do it because they have an example in the shepherds. This gives the sense to Peter’s phrase, “among you” in 1 Peter 5:2. He is among them so as to be seen before them, taking the initiative, leading by example, and exercising the oversight of souls. He does not drive them as he would cattle. The shepherd goes before them but never calls them into a path that he has not first entered. No wonder Paul precedes his exhortation to oversee the flock with the words, “Take heed unto yourselves…” (Acts 20:28), because their example is as critical as their words. It is for this exact reason that Paul writes to Titus that elders should be above reproach as God’s steward (Titus 1:7).
Such men were qualified to lead because they had demonstrated their ability to live their own lives in the path that is right and teach their children the same. They were not tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. They were equipped and skilled in teaching the word of God. They were experienced in the word of righteousness by reason of time and use (Hebrews 5) and had a proven reputation worthy of imitation.