Category Archives: Elders

Clergy & Laity: He says he’s suffering from burn out. Is he serious? (Elders Who Aren’t Jackasses)

Yes, he’s serious. From Monday Morning Insight, by Todd Rhodes, Forty-eight percent of them think their work is hazardous to their family well-being. Another 45.5 percent will experience a burnout or a depression that will make them leave their jobs. … Continue reading

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The Shepherding Model, 21st Century Version

At last, rather than talking about sheep in pens and leading sheep through the wilderness and protecting sheep from wolves, we have a catchy modern metaphor. Announcing a new seminar for elders: Teaching the Sheep to Surf!* * Involves no … Continue reading

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Bad Elders: Leadership Hubris

Thom S. Rainer is a well-known author, consultant, and speaker on church growth and leadership. He recently posted an article in his blog about hubris among church leaders. “Hubris,” of course, means pride. It’s the Greek word for the kind … Continue reading

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Bad Elders: A Question from a Reader

I get emails — Small Church of Christ in the Bible Belt. Not incorporated, and so no bylaws or charter. The church has two elders, one of them is the preacher. The non-preaching elder fires the preacher and demands his … Continue reading

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Elder Training: An Idea

A while back, I posted a survey asking how many would be interested in a two-day elder training program here in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The total “yes” responses was 31. Jim K has now asked where this idea stands. Given that … Continue reading

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Elder Training Poll

Although opinions are split, it seems that most believe that a formal program of training — as opposed to only personal Bible study and church Bible classes — is needed for our elders. In an effort to get some solid … Continue reading

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Email Regarding Divorced Elders

I get emails — Fundamentally, I believe we have dealt with families who have come to us with divorce in their background in a manner similar to what you suggest in your summary list on MDR. That is, we have … Continue reading

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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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