Tag Archives: shepherds

On Bad Elders: Doing a Better Job of Selecting Elders, Part 1 (Training the Members)

Removing lousy elders can be really ugly. It’s never pleasant for the man being removed or for those confronting him and asking him to step down. It’s far, far better to ordain men who will make into good elders. Lots … Continue reading

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On Bad Elders: Removing Lousy Elders, a Story

A long time ago, in a land far, far away (not that far, actually), the men of a church gathered in a classroom. Two men had organized the meeting, and one acted as chair. “Most of you know why we’re … Continue reading

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On Bad Elders: Removing Lousy Elders, Toward a Solution, Part 2

Public rebuke of sin In 1 Tim 5:19 we are taught how to “rebuke” an elder — (1 Tim 5:19-20) Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who … Continue reading

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On Bad Elders: Removing Lousy Elders, Toward a Solution, Part 1

In the last post, I proposed three much-need reforms, one of which is coming up with a mechanism for getting rid of elders who shouldn’t be elders. The difficulty of judging an elder As problematic as it is to come … Continue reading

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On Bad Elders: Thinking Out Loud

One of the biggest challenges facing the Churches of Christ today is how to deal with lousy elders. Of course, many churches have excellent elderships, but there are far too many congregations being held back by weak, ineffective, or downright … Continue reading

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Dealing with Murmurers

In a comment to an earlier post, Dell Kimberly asked, One of our deacons has not come on board. He and his wife are upset with the change of direction. They continue to work just below the surface. They question … Continue reading

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Buried Talents: Further on How Elders Oversee the Church

In a comment to the previous post, Alan points out that the Old Testament’s use of “overseer” refers to a supervisor or overseer in the workplace. Think “middle management.” And it’s true. I was already familiar with the passages. I’ve … Continue reading

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Buried Talents: How Do We Decide?

What is the rule in this case? Do we presume a rule or do we presume freedom? What does the Bible say? (Gal. 3:25) Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law. Why … Continue reading

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