The Elder Led Church

Published: 1 month ago- 22 September 2024

Preacher: Sam Hemming
Passage: 1 Timothy 3:1-7
Service: 8:30AM Service
Series: I'm (not) Done with Church | 2024

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SERMON MANUSCRIPT

INTRODUCTION

Throughout this last term, we’ve been making our way through our series ‘I’m (not) done with church’. This morning, we’ve reached our final sermon on our final topic: a church that’s led by elders.

I’m sure you’d agree with me, that all too often people are done with church because of those who lead it. Whether that’s because of some kind of conflict or some kind of moral failure in an individual leader or the collective leadership. Just this week I was directed to a research paper which looked at attendance patterns in the Sydney Anglican Church. In the last 10 years, Sydney Anglicans have seen an adult attendance decline of 7%.^¹ One of the factors connected to this decline was ‘leadership character’ (or lack there of). It stated that:

“… when parish attendance data was examined, every parish that had experienced significant conflict or moral failure in the leadership also experienced an attendance decline”.^²

People are done with church because of those who lead it. But I don’t need to tell us the stats, do I? For so many of us, we know this. We’ve experienced this. We’ve witnessed others experience this. We’ve either walked out the door or we’ve seen others walk out the door because of the leadership. After these kinds of experiences, we can be left wondering: What now? What will it take for our church to recover? What will it take to heal? What will take to make sure that doesn’t happen again?

Well, there’s lots of good and wise answers to those questions. But here’s just one possible answer: it requires valuing what God values when it comes to leadership. In his book Lead, Paul Tripp suggests that the root of many heartbreaking leadership failures is often a subtle and progressive shift in values.^³ There’s a shift in the values of individual leaders (like the pastor), collective leadership groups (like the elders), and even the members of the congregation. Whilst a church says that they value things like ‘godliness’, ‘honesty’, ‘humility’, ‘confession’, ‘accountability’, ‘forgiveness’ (and so on)-overtime they functionally don’t. By the time the church or ministry encounters conflict or moral failure in the leadership, the shift in values has already taken place, ever so slowly.^⁴ After detailing all this, Tripp offers a sobering diagnostic question: “Is what’s important to God still important to us?”.^⁵ “Do we still value what God values?”

PURPOSE

Well, this morning, as we look at 1 Timothy 3:1-7, we’ve got an opportunity to recommit to valuing what God values when it comes to leadership.
Here in 1 Timothy, the Apostle Paul writes to his young protégé Timothy. From what we know, Timothy was doing ministry with the church in Ephesus, modern day Turkey. Whilst the church existed in Ephesus for some time, it seems that there were problems with their leadership, particularly their elders.^⁶ Later in his letter, from chapter 5 verses 19-20, the Apostle Paul speaks about accusations being made against elders and the need to rebuke those elders who weren’t living or leading as they ought (cf. 1 Timothy 5:19-20). Paul wants everyone to know how they ought to behave in the household of God, particularly the elders (cf. 1 Timothy 3: 14-15). It’s this kind of leadership problem that may have motivated Paul to write what we’re looking at today.
So, here in 1 Timothy 3, the Apostle Paul reminds Timothy (and us) of what God values when it comes to leadership. As Paul lists out the qualifications for overseers (otherwise known as “elders”), we’ll discover that our God deeply cares about both the work and the worker.

1. GOD VALUES THE WORK (V1)

So, let’s begin with the work.

Whilst the Apostle Paul spends the majority of his time writing about the qualifications for the worker, he begins by speaking about the nature of the work. Paul describes the nature/quality of the work of overseer/elder.

1a. The work is ‘good’

In verse 1, you’ll notice that Paul describes the work of elder as inherently ‘good’.

“Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.” (1 Timothy 3:1)

Here, Paul’s trustworthy saying teaches us that the work of overseer is (1) a work (not a status) and (2) it’s a ‘good’ work (not just any kind of work). Paul says that it’s a “noble task” which can be translated as “a good task” “a beautiful task” or “an excellent task”.^⁷ In Paul’s mind, the work of overseers/elders is inherently ‘good’. It’s a good work.

1b. Why is the work ‘good’?

Now, I don’t know about you, but that’s something I haven’t heard lately! The work of overseer/elder is ‘good’!? I mean, come on Paul! Don’t you know how hard it is? Have you not felt the pressure? Don’t you know how much time it requires? Don’t you know the people you have to deal with? Really Paul!? You’re not convincing anyone! Especially us Australians who have a hard time believing that any work is ‘good’. The work is good? Really? Why would the Apostle Paul say such a thing?

Well, the work of overseer/elder is good because it’s about taking care of God’s church. Throughout 1 Timothy, Paul views the church as “God’s church” (cf. 3:5); “God’s household” (cf. 3:15); “the church of the living God” (cf. 3:15); “the pillar and foundation of the truth” (cf. 3:15). In other words, Paul recognises that the church (those of us who have been united with Christ) belong to God and are indwelled by God. Therefore, the work is not a futile work, a bad work, or an insignificant work-but a good work. It’s a good work because the work involves caring for and leading God’s church which he has saved and indwelled.

But if that isn’t enough, the work is also good because you’re participating in Christ’s work. Throughout other parts of the New Testament, the Lord Jesus Christ is described as the church’s “shepherd” and “overseer”. The Apostle Peter says that the Lord Jesus is “the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls” (cf. 1 Peter 2:25). Therefore, to engage in the work of overseer/elder, is to participate in Christ’s work and ministry. A good work. A work of caring for souls; feeding the bruised and battered sheep; loving that which Christ loves-the church of God.

In his commentary on 1 Timothy, John Calvin (who lived and pastored in the 1500s) wrote this:

“Paul states… that this is not any kind of work, but excellent, and therefore toilsome and full of difficulty, as it actually is. For it is no light matter to be a representative of the Son of God, in discharging an office of such magnitude, the object of which is to erect and extend the kingdom of God, to procure the salvation of souls which the Lord himself hath purchased with his own blood, and to govern the Church, which is God’s inheritance.”.^⁸

The work of overseer/elder is good, despite its difficulties, because it’s about taking care of God’s church, being a representative of Christ and a participant in Christ’s work. So, if there’s anyone here this morning/evening, who desires the work of elder/overseer-you’re desiring a good work. Despite whatever people might say, despite however you’ve seen it done in the past, despite how you’ve experienced the work of elders-the work is good. So, desire it.

2. GOD VALUES THE WORKER (V2-7)

After reminding Timothy that the work of overseer/elder is inherently good, the Apostle Paul moves to a logical consequence. Paul makes a “Since A, therefore B” type argument. Since the work is good, it therefore demands a good worker. So, in verses 2-7, Paul lists the qualifications for overseers/elders. And I know you probably know this, but it’s good to be reminded that that’s what they are: required qualifications.

You see, this isn’t like what we’d find on most job advertisements. You know, job advertisements which have the ‘required qualifications’ section and then the ‘preferred qualifications’ section. Well, this isn’t like that.

For the Apostle Paul there are no preferences, but only requirements. A good work requires a good worker.

2a. The ‘good’ worker

In verse 2, the Apostle Paul begins with a general standard:

“Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. [Therefore] the overseer is to be above reproach… ” (1 Timothy 3:1-2)

Here, Paul’s sets the bar for overseers/elders. At its core, the overseer/elder is to be “above reproach”, literally “blameless”. This means, that by God’s grace, the overseer/elder will “not be open to attack or criticism with regards to their life” either privately or publicly.^⁹ In other words, the elder can’t be faulted-they have a reputation (a track record) for integrity and excellence. They have a reputation for Christ-likeness, where it is obvious that Christ has been formed in them. They’re legit, as good as gold!

2b. What’s this look like?

Now, you might be wondering: “Well, that sounds great, but what does this actually look like?” “What are the specifics?”.
Well, in verses 2-7, the Apostle Paul gives Timothy (and us) the nitty-gritty. Paul lists off a bunch of traits which focus on both personal maturity and the ability to relate well to others, particularly in leading, teaching, and caring.^¹⁰
This long list begins with an elder’s marriage.

In verse 2, Paul says that an overseer must be “faithful to his wife”, literally “a husband of one woman”. If an overseer is married, he must have one wife and must be sexually faithful to her.^¹¹
Then, the overseer must be “temperate”, literally “level-headed” (v2).^¹² An overseer must be someone who stays calm and rational, even in stressful or challenging situations.
Then, the overseer must be “self-controlled”, literally “prudent” or “thoughtful” (v2).^¹³ An overseer must be someone who is sensible. They let their mind guide their body.
Then “respectable”, literally “admirable” (v2).^¹⁴ An overseer must be someone who people have a high regard for. They have characteristics or qualities that people admire. People want to be like them.
Then “hospitable” (v2). An overseer must be someone who is warm, welcoming, and generous to others. They invite people into their homes, but they also can create a warm and friendly atmosphere and make people feel comfortable.
Then “able to teach”, literally “skillful in teaching” (v2).^¹⁵ An overseer must not only have sound theology, but be someone who can teach, exhort, gently correct, and refute those who oppose the gospel. They know, can teach, and can defend the truths of Scripture.

Then, the list continues with an elder’s relationship to alcohol.

In verse 3, Paul says that an overseer must “not be given to drunkenness”, literally “not addicted to wine”.^¹⁶ An overseer can’t be a heavy drinker, someone who habitually drinks too much and becomes a drunk.^¹⁷
Then, the overseer must “not be violent”, literally “quick to fight” (v3). An overseer must not be someone who is a bully, abrasive, or aggressive.^¹⁸ They must not be someone with a violent approach toward others, resorting to force or intimidation.
Instead, the overseer must be “gentle”, literally “kind” (v3). An overseer must be someone who shows kindness, tenderness, and a soft approach in behaviour and interactions. The gentleness of Christ toward sinners and sufferers must be visible in an elder.
Then, an overseer must “not be quarrelsome”, literally they should be “peaceable” (v3).^¹⁹ An overseer must be someone who is uncontentious. They don’t try to cause arguments or disputes but seek harmony. They don’t try to be controversial, but peaceful.
Then, an overseer must “not be a lover of money” (v3). An overseer can’t be greedy; they can’t love money or material things. Their heart can’t be set on getting rich or gaining worldly possessions. Instead, they’re people who are content with what they have.

Then, the list goes on to include an elder’s ability to lead and care.

In verse 4, Paul says that an overseer “must manage his own family well” (v4a). The overseer must manage (literally “lead” or “direct”) their own household. And this leadership should be done “well”, literally “good” or “beautifully” or “excellently”.^²⁰ In other words, an overseer is to be a good leader of a well-ordered household. If he has children, they’re to “obey him”, literally to “submit to him” (v4b). (Now, this doesn’t mean that his children are perfect! But, it does mean that his children don’t blatantly and regularly disregard his instructions.^²¹). And if the overseer has children, their obedience is grounded in the fact that he’s someone who is “worthy of full respect” (v4c). His children admire him.
Notice, in verse 5, why this kind of caring leadership is essential! The Apostle Paul says that “If anyone can’t manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s flock?” (v5). It’s an argument from the lesser to the greater-from the family to the family of God.^²² If he can’t “care for” his own family, then it’s unthinkable to let him care God’s church.
In verse 6, Paul says that an overseer “must not be a recent convert” (v6a). In other words, he can’t be a novice in the faith.^²³ He has to be mature, someone whose tried and tested, so that he doesn’t “become proud” or arrogant (v6b). Otherwise, he’ll “fall into judgement”, just like the devil who arrogantly opposed God (cf. Genesis 3:5, 14-15) (v6c).^²⁴
Then finally, in verse 7, Paul says that an overseer “must also have a good reputation with outsiders” (v7a). Once again, the word “good”, translated as “beautiful” or “excellent” appears.^²⁵ Outsiders, those who aren’t part of the church, should think that he’s a good bloke. Otherwise, the devil will lure him into a trap.

Here, in verses 2-7, the Apostle Paul gives Timothy (and us) the nitty-gritty. He spells out the qualifications for elders/overseers. Since the work is so good, it demands a good worker. It’s crucial! An elder is to be “above reproach”, “blameless” in every part of their life.

In his book, The Reformed Pastor, Richard Baxter reminds us of why this all matters. He says it so simply:

“Take heed to yourselves… lest you unsay with your lives, what you say with your tongues… One proud, surely, lordly word, one needless contention, one covetous action-may cut the throat of many a sermon, and blast the fruit off all that you have been doing… “.^²⁶

An elder is to be “above reproach”, “blameless” in every part of their life because the work is good and the health and success of the church is on the line.

2c. Where do we get someone like this?

As you sit there hearing this morning/evening, you might be thinking: “Sam, where do we even get someone like this?” “Is this even possible?” “Can anyone be like this?”

Well, outside of Christ, the answer is ‘no’. Without the grace of Christ, no one can be like this. But in Christ, the answer is ‘yes’. In light of everything God has done and is doing in Christ, He provides men suitable for the work. At the end of the day, all “such qualifications are the outworking of God’s grace” in Christ.^²⁷ The work is good, it demands a good worker, and our God supplies.

DO WE VALUE WHAT GOD VALUES?

So, do we still value what God values when it comes to leadership? Do we truly value the work of overseer/elder, like God does? Do we truly value the qualifications of the worker, like God does? What would it look like if we really did?

Well, there’s a number of things.

At the very least, we’d be a church that elects elders like this.
We’d be testing those potential elders-asking them questions about their lives (public and private).
We’d be people who defend and advocate for these things. We’d celebrate when people are like this. We’d hold leaders accountable when they’re not.
We’d be a church that considers these values not just for a new elder or pastor, but even an old elder or pastor.
We’d be people who care more about character than performance.
The vision and direction of the church won’t just be about size, but about inward transformation.
Our leadership communities would be having real and honest discussions about these things. The staff and elders would be talking about character. We’d be confessing where we’re getting it wrong. And we’d be striving in God’s transforming power and grace to change.
We wouldn’t be comfortable believing that our leadership is okay or fine when it’s not okay.
We wouldn’t close our eyes and ears to certain character deficiencies because of ministry effectiveness.
We wouldn’t be passive in the face of troubling evidence against a leader because they value their past performance or future relationship.
We wouldn’t be too slow to act on issues of misconduct because we don’t want to cause a stir.
In short, we wouldn’t accept what we shouldn’t accept; or be silent when we should speak; or be passive when we should act.^²⁸
We’d know deep down, that at the end of the day, “character is king”.^²⁹ And that, as one person said, character is of the utmost importance because “character colours everything you do”.^³⁰

There’s so many things we could say. But if we valued what God valued when it comes to leadership, we’d be part of a church where people say “I love my church” “I’m not going anywhere” “I’m not done with church.

CONCLUSION

Throughout this term, we’ve gotten a glimpse of God’s vision for the church. We’re to be a church that has a deep trust in the word, loves God, serves others, is on mission, is in community, and is led by elders.

This morning/evening, we’ve been given an opportunity to recommit to valuing what God values when it comes to leadership. Here in 1 Timothy 3, the Apostle Paul reminds Timothy (and us) of what God values when it comes to leadership. As Paul lists out the qualifications for overseers/elders, we discover that our God deeply cares about both the work and the worker. It’s a good work, a beautiful work, an excellent work-and it requires good, beautiful, and excellent workers.

Let’s ask our God, in his abundance mercy and grace, to provide so that we might live in and enjoy His glorious vision of the church.

Endnotes

1 Reports and Papers for the Second Session of the 53rd Synod, 70. See: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UcjodgDqEcc3VsSanYHYBpcJO1ywE9LB/view

2 Reports and Papers for the Second Session of the 53rd Synod, 90.

3 Tripp, Lead, 102.

4 Tripp, Lead, 102.

5 Tripp, Lead, 102.

6 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 177.

7 BDAG, 505.

8 Calvin, Calvin’s Commentaries, Paragraph 92713.

9 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 155.

10 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 155.

11 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 155.

12 BDAG, 672.

13 Louw and Nida, 753.

14 BDAG, 561.

15 BDAG, 240.

16 BDAG, 780.

17 Louw and Nida, 773.

18 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 160.

19 BDAG, 52.

20 BDAG, 505.

21 https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/what-are-the-requirements-to-be-an-elder/

22 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 161-162.

23 Calvin, Calvin’s Commentaries, Paragraph 92713.

24 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 163.

25 BDAG, 505.

26 Baxter, The Reformed Pastor, 63.

27 Knight, The Pastoral Epistles, 165.

28 Tripp, Lead, 111.

29 Hamilton, Wisdom in Leadership, 32.

30 Hamilton, Wisdom in Leadership, 32.

Services

Morning Church: Sunday, 8:30am & 10:30am

Kids Church: 8:30am & 10:30am

Playgroup: Friday, 9:30am

Youth: Sunday, 3:30pm

Evening Church: 5:00pm

WATCH LIVE: from 8:30am

Location

Church: 40 Ruby Road, Mitchelton

Office: 28 Ruby Road, Mitchelton

Contact

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