Santosh Poonen - Responsibilities of Elders in a New Covenant Church | Austin CFC | 2023-12-31
Summary
The speaker discusses the biblical pattern for appointing church leaders, asserting that it is not a democratic vote but rather an apostolic appointment guided by God's direction. He outlines specific qualifications for elders, drawing from Titus, emphasizing characteristics like being above reproach and devoted to sound doctrine. Ultimately, he stresses that the primary responsibility of an elder is to act as a shepherd.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How does the Bible direct the appointment of church leaders?Leadership in the New Testament is never held by a single man as a pastor; instead, churches are led by a plurality of elders appointed by those whom God called and whose ministry was confirmed.
The biblical pattern versus worldly systemsPaul and Barnabas went from town to town, strengthening disciples and appointing elders in every church through prayer and fasting, avoiding the worldly practice of applying for pastorships through seminaries and votes.
Qualifications for elders in TitusPaul instructed Titus to appoint elders in every city who are above reproach, faithful in their families, self-controlled, and able to hold fast and teach sound doctrine.
God looks at the heartWhen Samuel anointed David, God demonstrated that He looks at the heart rather than outward appearances or natural talent, choosing a shepherd boy over impressive candidates.
Shepherds after God's own heartGod promises in the New Covenant to give His people shepherds after His own heart to feed them with knowledge and understanding, reflecting His compassion for people who are like sheep without a shepherd.Jeremiah 3:14
The unglamorous nature of shepherdingTrue spiritual leadership goes downward to serve and get messy with the sheep, much like a literal shepherd who smells like the flock, rather than climbing a ladder for worldly status.
Guarding the flock from savage wolvesPaul warned the Ephesian elders to be on guard and protect the flock from savage wolves and false teachers who would arise from both outside and inside the church.
An example of discernment needed in leadershipWhile Philip successfully evangelized Samaria, he lacked the discernment to see that Simon the magician was operating with a wrong spirit until the apostles Peter and John arrived to cleanse the church.Acts 8:6
Distinguishing discernment from suspicionSpiritual discernment comes from being in touch with the Holy Spirit to protect the church and serve others, which is entirely different from earthly, partial suspicion.
