[322 words]
Elders face problems of all shapes, sizes, and colors. A few years of putting out fires can leave them burned out. They can come to rule with an iron fist rather than a velvet touch–more of the shepherd’s rod than his crook. Early Roman philosopher Publilius Syrus said, “You can accomplish by kindness what you cannot by force.” Peter explained that elders take the oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over close in your charge, but being examples to the flock (1 Peter 5:2-3).”
A couple facing an imminent divorce will be more open to counsel from elders whose eyes fill with tears and whose voice shake with tender emotion. A wayward member will be more likely to humbly return when elders gently plead and softly admonish. A congregation that sees the compassion of an eldership as they have to exercise church discipline will stand behind their leaders’ decision. The bishops’ heartfelt love for lost souls will be recognized by a congregation looking for a cause to support.
The Bible often pictures elders as shepherds, a figure that emphasizes care, concern, and compassion (1 Peter 5:1-4). When a sheep is missing, a shepherd lovingly pursues it and compassionately brings it back (Luke 15:4-7). The shepherd-elder restores “…restores him in a spirit of gentleness,” considering himself “…lest you too be tempted (Galatians 6:1).” The word restore is a medical term that has reference to setting a broken bone. An elder seeking to restore an erring child of God goes with trepidation, knowing that the stakes are high. He goes with compassion, just as a doctor would set a broken arm. Such elders are worth cherishing and complimenting: “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 5:17).“
Allen Webster
via Hooker church of Christ
Hooker, OK