Prepare for Sunday morning worship by using the guide below.
1 Timothy 3:1-7
3 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.
Watch the Sermon
Summary: Although the church is distinct from the authority structures of the world, authority still exists within the family of God. God is our authority as the creator, and Christ is the head of the church. He has delegated authority to elders in the church to shepherd the flock and protect the message of the gospel. Unlike the world, elders are to be distinct in their authority. As models of godly character and competency, God has given elders a unique and weighty calling. In 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Paul wants the church to know that these leaders are called to lead with godly conduct, character, and credibility.
Review & Apply
What about eldering makes it a "good work" or "noble task" according to verse 1?
Why is trust between elders and church members essential in the life of the church? What has God given us to help maintain and build that trust?
Do you struggle with the idea of authority? How is the authority of elders in the life of the church meant to be a good thing? How have you seen that modeled in our church?
Are you challenged by any of these qualifications in your own life as a Christian? Do you feel the conviction to grow in any of these Christian principles?
Do you pray for the elders of CCC, that we would walk in a manner worthy of our calling? How can you/your family begin to incorporate prayer for the elders into your routine?
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