God intended the church to be overseen by qualified men known as elders or bishops (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). God's plan is for every congregation to have elders (Acts 14:22-23; Titus 1:5). The Holy Spirit has given the qualifications for becoming an elder (1st Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-11) and directions of how to conduct one's self in the office (1st Peter 5:1-3; Acts 20:28). The office of a bishop is ordained of the Holy Spirit. Elders are told to "take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers..." (Acts 20:28).
Christians should read and understand the qualifications of an elder as taught in 1st Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-11. However, they need to understand this does not make these men perfect. We must never forget that elders are men. Elders do not possess any miraculous spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit. Elders do not possess any exceptional wisdom that cannot be attained by others. Elders do not have any authority to make laws in the kingdom. Elders must make many judgment decisions, and elders can, and do, make mistakes. They should be willing to say I was wrong.
Elders will seldom please all members with their decisions. Members may not always know the complete story and the elders can't always disclose all information. They must oversee realizing they are not in a popularity contest, and must be capable of enduring criticism.
Elders must keep themselves informed of things going on in the world around them. And, they must understand that things practiced by denominations, and other brethren, affect the congregation they oversee. We do not live in a vacuum. Elders must take a stand on issues that face the church from without and within, and make sure folks know what that stand is. They cannot use "church autonomy" as an excuse to bury their head in the sand while danger is lurking at the door. They must inform the congregation of dangers that threaten and the defense against them. They must keep in mind that preaching the whole council of God will cause folks to either be converted or to leave.
The body is not one member, but many (1st Cor. 12:14). Just as the different parts of the physical body are unique, so is each member of Christ's body, the church. "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular" (1st Cor. 12:27). The elder must always be mindful that he is overseeing individuals with different needs, while making decisions that are best for the entire body, and most importantly, according to God's pattern and principles.
Elders, the same as preachers, are not counselors. When problems are brought before him, he must consult the word of God for the answer. This is not to say one cannot give some advice from lessons learned from similar situations. But, the ultimate authority is the truth God has revealed in the Bible. The elder must ponder his answers long and hard. There is nothing wrong with saying, "I need to study this some more." "I will get back to you."
Although the elder is given rule (Heb. 13:17) and must take the oversight (1st Peter 5:2) he must always remember that he is not the head of the church (Eph. 1:22-23). The elder must remain humble and never forget he is also to be in submission (Eph. 5:21; James 4:6-7; 1st Pet. 2:13). He must be one that has willingly become a servant for Christ's sake, realizing God is holding him accountable for how he serves (Heb. 13:17).
Dickey Howard 1713 Jackson Road, Florence, AL 35630
Preacher Training Series
Preacher Training: Introduction
My dubious thanks go to Dan Henderson for inviting me to write on the subject of training preachers. "Thanks", because the work of encouraging worthy men and helping them to "fulfill their ministry" is one in which I've been blessed to participate in for a number of years and which is close to my heart. "Dubious", because I think I'm probably not the most experienced in this area that could be sought out. However, I am the one he asked so I shall do my best in the coming months to share my thoughts and experiences in this important area of kingdom work.
I believe the work of training preachers to be a vitally important work, for a number of reasons. Here are four.
First, it is important because leadership is always important. John Maxwell, a well-known speaker on leadership defines leadership as "influence". The Holy Spirit used the term "example", 1 Timothy 4:12. Whichever term appeals to you, the influence/example of a leader in the kingdom needs to be helpful to men, glorifying to God (Matthew 5:14-16), evangelistic to outsiders (1 Peter 2:12), and hindering to Satan (Ephesians 4:27). Many mistakes that preachers have fallen into that gave Satan an opportunity in their lives or the lives of the church they work with could have been avoided with some experience in a good training program where they would have profited from the wisdom of an older man.
Second, a training program is important because James 3:1 says that "teachers" will incur a stricter judgment. This passage is not teaching that God will judge teachers any "stricter," He is impartial. Instead, James is warning teachers that other men will hold them to a higher standard. In contemporary speech, they will live in a fishbowl. Young men every single year begin and then quit the work of gospel preaching. One of the main complaints is criticism and fault finding.
A training program is important because it is one area that we have neglected over the years. We have studied, researched, debated, and written books about the Holy Spirit's qualifications for elders. We consistently teach on fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, and deacons, but what preacher likes to get up and talk about preachers? At the same time, in many congregations we have encouraged anyone who could put together an outline to get up and preach, regardless of his ability, his home life, his character, his experience, or his knowledge.
If raising up preachers and teachers for the next generation is a responsibility of the church (and I believe it is) then the Lord's church is fully sufficient and able to accomplish this task. Congregations, wherever possible, should step up to the plate with commitment, finances, and the scriptures to encourage and direct the next generation of leaders.
Lastly, I believe the work of training preachers is a Biblical work. I gather that Paul was in the "preacher training business" as I read his words to Timothy and Titus calling them his "son" and "faithful child" in the faith. His commendation and obvious love for men like Epaphroditus and Tychicus make me wonder if they were two more "trainees". What type of learning experience short of the direct operation of the Spirit could be more scriptural and effective than a Paul-Timothy relationship of mentoring and directing.
Carl McMurray 220 Swift Dr, Nashville, TN 37072
Passing the Sword Series
Passing The Sword: Introduction
Dan Henderson has invited me to write some articles under the above heading, that will be published each month over a period of twelve months in his publication: STRAITWAY. I appreciate the invitation and will do my best to offer some things that will be helpful.
FROM THE OLDER TO THE YOUNGER.
In 1949, I preached my first full length sermon. I still have the original sermon, which was written out in full and memorized, in my files. In the years that have past since that time I have learned to just use outlines to keep me on the straight and narrow as I present a lesson. Yes, I have that first lesson in my files along with all the other outlines of sermons I have preached over the past 52 years.
I had a preacher tell me that he uses an outline just one time and then he destroys it. I suppose he had his reasons for doing that but I personally think that such is a waste of time and effort on his part. I think such outlines would not only be helpful to him in the future but they could be of help to others, especially young men that are preparing to preach the gospel and need some help in preparing outlines and applying scriptures to definite subjects. Yes, I have two file cabinet drawers full of outlines of past sermons.
When I first started trying to preach, I too was very happy to get all the help I could get from my older brothers and sisters in Christ. I am so thankful to them for their timely assistance.
Yes, the sword, which is the Word of God, must ultimately be passed from the hands of the elderly, whether preachers, or elders, hands that are becoming feeble and weak from age, and minds that are beginning to forget, to young, strong, zealous hands that will continue to press on in the fight in Jesus Name.
Over the years, since I have matured in my efforts to preach the gospel, I have opened the pulpits where I have labored to every young man that was trying to gain experience.
I trust, that over the coming months, in looking at Paul's writings to Timothy and Titus we will be able to mine many treasures for the use of our young men that are going to be preparing themselves to preach the Word of God. Please study with us.
Jim Sasser 1722 W. Market St., Athens, AL 35611
Deacons Series
The Deacon's Work: Introduction
The apostle Paul wrote in the first book to the young evangelist Timothy, "For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus" (1 Tim. 3:13). If we want to properly understand and apply this text we need to understand what a deacon is and what a deacon is supposed to do. We are going to look at the office of the deacon in several different aspects. We want to look at what it is, as well as what it is not. We also want to look at what qualities a man needs to become a deacon. We also want to look at the deacon's responsibilities as well as his duties.
The word deacon comes from the Greek word DIAKONOS. This word in the Greek text is most simply defined as a servant. There are, however, two different ways this word is used in the New Testament. The first usage is anyone who would do any type of servile work. This word used in this way is in reference to servants, civil rulers, ministers and even to Christ. Another way it is used is to denote one who has been chosen to serve the church as a deacon. The word "deacon" is an anglicized form of the word diakonos.
What is a deacon? As we alluded to earlier a deacon is one who has been appointed to serve the Lord's church in a special capacity. The deacons are qualified men who have a knowledge or expertise in a specific area of the work of the church. The elders then assign them tasks that relate to that area. The deacon's responsibility is to carry out the work that the elders have selected for them to do. As we see in Acts 6:1-6 the deacons are the ones who would execute the day-to-day tasks leaving the apostles time for weightier matters.
"Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, 'It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.'" (Acts 6:2-4)
What a deacon is NOT: A deacon is not an elder in training. There are qualifications for deacons and different qualifications for elders. A deacon might later become an elder but we should not use this office as a proving ground for training elders. There are good men who can serve well as deacons who might not have the desire or qualities to become an elder, yet can still be an asset to the church as a deacon.
The office of a deacon is not someplace to put a brother who needs encouragement to try to strengthen him. 1 Timothy 3:10 tells us that the deacon must first be proved and then let him serve. A deacon is not part of a board of directors made up of the elders and deacons that run the church. The elders and deacons have very different responsibilities and duties.
The office of a deacon is an important work in order for the church to function smoothly and Paul told Timothy the one who serves well in it acquires a good standing. We hope to learn more about what these servants do in the coming months.
Kent Ward 8915 East County Road 400, North Brownsburg, IN 46112
Home Series
"Home": What is it?
Our society and nation, as well as the whole world is plagued with a variety of religious, social and political problems which I believe, for the most part, are directly traceable to problems in the home. Arnold J. Toynbee (1889-1975), a professor of history at the University of London, said: "Homes are the building blocks of civilization." An unknown author penned these words: "Home is the chief school of human virtues." From these two quotes we are made to realize the tremendous importance of the home. But just what do we mean when we use the word "Home"?
Today we use the word "home" rather loosely to designate a variety of different ideas and such is generally the case in the Scriptures. The context in which the word home is used must determine just what is meant. In this article I want to examine the idea or ideas conveyed by the word "home" and specify just what I am referring to in my usage of the word "home". Then in future articles I plan to look at various aspects of the home, as will be defined for our consideration, and how they relate to us and our relationship to God.
When you hear someone use the word "home" what is the first thing that comes into your thoughts? Sometimes we think of a "home place" where our parents or our grandparents live or maybe the place where we currently live. Pliny the Elder said: "Home is where the heart is." So, in a sense, "home" can be wherever a person may be.
"It is about a certain sustained knowing and consciousness that exists between its members, a security that comes less from the roof over our heads than the place in our lives that we make for each other." — Phyllis Theroux
"Home is the place where a world of strife has been shut out and a world of love shut in. Home is where the great is small and the small is great. Home is the place where faults are hidden and virtues are exalted. Home is where our stomachs get three meals a day and our hearts get a thousand. Home is the place where we complain the most and have the greatest blessings. Home is the father's kingdom, the mother's world and the child's paradise. Homes are vestibules of heaven."
For the purpose of our study in this series of articles we will be using the word "home" with reference to the family unit and not some material structure made out of wood, brick and mortar. It is my conviction that the God of heaven instituted the home (family) in the very beginning of creation. And this unit (family or home) is the very basic institution of our society.
What or who makes up this institution, how do the various parts of this institution relate to and influence each other and how did God intend for this unit to function? As we continue to look at this basic building block of civilization we will endeavor to answer these as well as other questions relating to the home (family). In our next installment the title will be: "Home God's First Institution".
Jerry L. Henderson 202 15th Street, Trenton, TN 38382
Foreign Evangelism Series
Foreign Evangelism: Understanding The Need
One of the greatest experiences I have had in preaching came from my trip to Belize in 1998. Over four weeks, I took part in more personal bible studies and witnessed more baptisms than many congregations see in one year. The trip forever changed my perspective on preaching, and served me with notice about the tremendous need for preaching in areas outside the United States.
Before going, I was reminded from a few brethren about the need here in the United States. There are so many areas right here at home where the church is not strong, we need to work there first, were among the comments I received. And no doubt there are areas here at home that need attention — such as the upper Midwest, the Rocky mountain region, and the Northeast. Many men and their families labor in these areas — with success! Let's continue to pray for, support them, and thank God for their desire to serve God in difficult places!
But what about the rest of the world, and what of our ability to teach the saving gospel of Christ to those who are desperately searching for God's truth? In answering this, let us examine an underlying principle expressed throughout the Scriptures. In Luke 10:30-37 Jesus tells us of a man robbed and left for dead. A priest and a Levite walk by and refuse to help. In verses 33-34, a Samaritan came upon him, and when he saw him, he felt compassion... bandaged up his wounds... brought him to an inn... and took care of him.
In the story of the Good Samaritan who was more guilty: the robbers or the priest & Levite? We would all agree that the robbers were evil and needed to be punished for their actions. But we must not forget the priest & Levite. They were accountable for their inaction. They were presented with an opportunity to demonstrate mercy and compassion — and ignored it. A verse in James' epistle comes to mind: "Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin." (James 4:17)
This verse teaches us that: Ability + Opportunity = Responsibility!
American preachers have a responsibility to spread the gospel, not only here at home but abroad as well! Millions around the world die each year without hearing the gospel. What are we doing about it? We cannot sit around and be spectators! We have to heed Jesus' command: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." (Mk. 16:15)
Tremendous opportunities are presenting themselves in Mexico and Central America. Many men are now laboring in South America with success. New congregations are being formed in Europe, Russia, and Australia. Work is being conducted in Japan, China, the Philippines, and other parts of Southeast Asia. I know of good work being conducted across Canada. The opportunities are limitless and the rewards gained from the work of spreading the gospel are priceless!
In 2 Kings 7:1-8 we read of a few lepers who stumbled into a Syrian camp. They find food, water, money, and horses! In verse 9 we read of the conversation between themselves: "we are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, but we are keeping silent;... let us go and tell the king's household." They knew it would be wrong to keep their good fortune under wraps. Brethren, how many people in the world know how wonderful it is to have salvation in Christ? Let's not keep the feast to ourselves!
Matthew Allen 1302 E. Fairmont Blvd, Rapid City, SD 57701
Front Page
"Teach Us To Number Our Days"
David prayed to God that he and the people might realize they did not have a perpetual lease on life (Psalms 90:12). As we stand on the threshold of another new year, we are made aware of our most precious and most fragile gift... TIME. No moment can be recalled or reclaimed. It cannot be put back on the clock or the calendar! We are reminded of the flowers that bloomed in the spring that are now faded and gone. Peter said, "For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth and the flower thereof falleth away" (1 Pet. 1:24). James described our lives as a "vapor that appeareth for a little time" (Jms. 4:14). Not only do we see the passing of another year, but we witness our children growing up so rapidly.
This is the season for balancing books, taking inventories, checking of ledgers, and plans for the coming year. As we appraise the worth of the past year, with its triumphs and failures, we must look ahead. As Israel approached the Jordan to enter the promised land, specific orders were given as to how they should progress. The explanation was, "Ye have not passed this way heretofore" (Josh. 3:4). Because we have not passed this way before, we must begin the new year "redeeming the time" (Eph. 5:15-16).
We have time and opportunity NOW (2 Cor. 6:2). When earthly life is over, "the earth and the works therein shall be burned up" (2 Pet. 3:10). If you knew you would not live to the end of the new year, what would you seek? What would you change? Jesus said, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" and "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" (Mt. 16:24; Mt. 6:33).
Change the way you think. Paul warned the saints at Corinth lest "your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ" (2 Cor. 11:3). When the mind is corrupted, the whole being becomes contaminated (Mt. 15:19-20)! We are to control our thoughts and think on right things (Phil. 4:7-8). We must set our minds on "things above" and "bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" (Col. 3:1-2; 2 Cor. 10:5). "For as he thinketh in his heart so is he" (Prov. 23:7).
Change what you know. Lack of knowledge has always gotten people into trouble. Hosea said, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hos. 4:6). The frightening fact is that very few people really study God's word. Jesus rebuked the Sadducees, "Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God" (Mt. 22:29). Peter charged that it was the sin of ignorance that crucified the Christ (Acts 3:17). We are commanded to "study to present ourselves approved unto God" (2 Tim. 2:15), yet many fail to realize this is the only road to knowledge of God's will. Will you avail yourself of such opportunities that you might "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Pet. 3:18)?
By relying upon God and keeping His word before us, we can be prepared for the future. Let us commit ourselves to God and to walking in His ways in this new year.