Why You Should Not Be An Elder
Why would a child aspire to conduct an orchestra? Probably because he is fascinated by the way conductors wave their arms and appear to be in control of everything. He has no idea of the wisdom and tact, not to mention the ability, required of a person in that position. His childish attempts to imitate the role while he looks for approval from his parents reveal that he is coveting recognition. We smile and put it down to immaturity.
The desire to perform, be esteemed, and to control others, also motivated Diotrephes, who loved the preeminence. Professing to be a disciple of Him who came among us as a Servant, he ministered only to himself. He coveted attention (see 3 Jn. 1:9). Diotrephes stands in stark contrast to the Good Shepherd, who was characterized by self-sacrifice and gave His life for the sheep (Lk. 22:26-27; Jn. 10:11). Yearning for recognition and honor is a form of pride, and qualifies us for nothing but the condemnation incurred by the devil (1 Tim. 3:6).
Envy can also be a motivation for men to seek overseership. Three sons of Levi were already men of renown, but coveted the role God had given Moses. They overlooked the fact that Moses had been chosen for this position because he was the meekest of men. In their eyes, he was taking too much upon himself and they were qualified to straighten things out. Already they had proven their ability to influence others, and this encouraged them to seek more authority (see Num. 16:1-50). Imagine the chaos and disharmony when men with hearts like that are given opportunity to lead in a local church.
Why You Should Be An Elder
Referring to 1 Timothy 3:1, Donald Norbie says, “It is good to be spiritually ambitious. Paul here commends the one who desires this work. It is good work, a beautiful work. And there is plenty of opportunity to achieve; there is always need for more good elders.” Note that the work is to be desired, not the title. Being an overseer calls for maturity, and one cannot simply be catapulted into becoming a spiritual shepherd. Those currently acting as overseers should be on the lookout for others to work with them who will eventually take their place.
That raises the question of how a budding elder may be recognized. In the life of a future overseer, a selfless care for others will often manifest itself even when he is too young to be given that position. His going after other young people who are straying, his visitation of the elderly, and his eagerness to be taught (for an elder must be apt to teach) are all promising signs.
The local church needs to look upon the service of shepherding as being no less important than that of a missionary. W.E. Vine was keenly interested in the Lord’s work overseas, being involved with “Echoes of Service” (the UK equivalent of CMML and MSC Canada) for many years, but he wrote of the danger of elevating overseas missions while undervaluing the work of an elder. Godly, devoted elders are to be highly esteemed because of the service they render (1 Thess. 5:13). Without them, churches become the prey of wolves (Acts. 20:28-29). May the Lord give us true elders.
A correspondent asks: “What passage(s) of Scripture would you cite as indicating the time when an elder should retire?” We hope to print some of your suggestions in an upcoming column.