The Blessing of Church Elders

Elders are not a new concept in the local church. They have their roots in the Old Testament as early as the time Moses delivered the children of Israel from Egypt (Exodus 3:16). As the Apostle Paul established new churches, we know, “Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church, praying and fasting as they entrusted them to the Lord, in whom they had believed” (Acts 14:23). A church without the leadership of qualified elders is not in order (Titus 1:5). God’s design has always been to place loving and capable leaders (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) among His people to shepherd and oversee His mission and their spiritual health.
 
As Peter wrote to the dispersed and persecuted believers in 1 Peter, he knew as an elder himself how important it was to have godly men serving and leading those facing difficult times. The church needed the comfort and reassurance of Christ their living hope (1:3) as well as direction on how to live in uncertain times. As Peter encouraged believers and taught them how to submit to various authorities, even abusive ones in government, workplace, and marriage, he reminded them of another authority in their lives in stark contrast. Elders were not to be abusive, full of pride, or void of Christlikeness. Elders were stewards of Christ’s authority and were to be willing, eager, and humble as they served Jesus’ church. As shepherds (5:2), Elders were to reflect Jesus the “Chief Shepherd” (5:4) in every way. While other authorities like Rome were “domineering over those in their charge”, Elders in the church were to “be examples to the flock” (5:3).
 
Peter “exhorted” the elders to look beyond the short-lived sufferings he and they witnessed to the eternal glory that would be revealed in Heaven (5:1). What a hopeful appeal and present example to the suffering saints to remember their identity as foreigners and exiles! “Exhort” is the word parakaleo and means “called to one’s side to encourage”. What a fitting word that strengthens Peter’s instruction to “shepherd the flock among you” (5:2). What encouragement, comfort, and hope a Christlike Elder brings to those they not only lead but are among. They are among those suffering and being persecuted, but also those whose hope is set on something far greater in Christ. As the church watched the examples and felt the love of their undershepherds of the Chief Shepherd among them, they could flourish under any oppressive and abusive temporary powers knowing the mighty hand of God would exalt them at the proper time (5:6). Elders who humbly lead with righteous authority allow those they serve to “cast all their anxieties on the Lord” and know full well “He cares for them” (5:7). May the church have elders like these among us today.