[145 words]
The following acrostic describes many of the attributes and behaviors that God expects of elders. We can read more about what God expects of elders by reading Eph. 4:11-16, 1 Tim. 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5.
E – Encouraging members, enthusiastic about the Lord’s work.
L – Leader, looking after one’s own spiritual life, learning about the people one serves, loves what is good, lording not over the flock.
D – Dedicated to God and His teachings disciplines those who disobey God, doing God’s will, devout.
E – Example, elder (mature in the faith), exercising oversight not under compulsion, equipping the saints.
R – Responsible for the congregation, right with God, respected by members of the church and outsiders.
S – Shepherd, spiritual, stays faithful, serving, studies God’s word.
When you find men, who have these attributes then you will find the men that will faithfully lead Christ’s church.
Mark T. Tonkery
Norval Park church of Christ
Zanesville, OH