There are times in our lives when it all seems too hard. And as a Christian I have thought in the past that it should not be that hard, because I’ve got God on my side.
Even in the early church, Paul found himself…
…strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22
Immediately following this, the apostles appointed elders for them.
Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. Acts 14:23
Elders for them. Appointed for the disciples, or for the church. It is not meant that the elders were appointed for the apostles.
Our church has a Board of Elders. In its wisdom and through God’s guidance, it must make many decisions to help us as a church remain true to the faith. Sometimes we may not fully understand those decisions, or even agree with them, but nevertheless we must rely on God, in whom we trust, and the elders in whom He has appointed.
We are well reminded that,
The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 1 Tim 5:17
Now giving double honour is only applicable if the elders direct the affairs of the church well. This doesn’t mean they are infallible and don’t make mistakes. They are human too and are subject to getting it wrong sometimes. But overall if they direct the affairs well and are not tyrants or little dictators (who would respect them then anyways), we should pay them double honour.
This is why I choose to be obedient to my elders at CityLife Church, especially when I don’t necessarily agree with a decision they may make from time to time. In this, I pay them double honour.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the elders you have appointed over Your church. Please continue to help our elders in directing the affairs of the church through Your Wisdom, Grace and Mercy. May every decision be a Godly one. Protect them from any other influence apart from You. In Jesus Name I ask it. Amen.