Scattered throughout the Old Testament, one finds many examples of men and women whom God calls blameless. The patriarch Job is one of the most inspirational characters in the Old Testament Scriptures. For centuries, God’s people have read his story and marveled at his patience and trust in God. His story begins in this manner: “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God…
It is not difficult to define the word “qualify” or “qualification” from a secular dictionary. “Qualify” is “to make fit or capable, as for an office (function), occupation or privilege.” “Qualification” is “the act of qualifying or the state of being qualified.” It is what fits a person for a particular task or to partake in a given function, so understanding the qualifications becomes important to every person. Furthermore, defining of the terms referencing the appointed elders is important for…
Not long ago a brother suggested that congregations with elders tend to weather religious storms with greater ease than those who are led by evangelists. As I considered this observation it became evident to me that this brother had perhaps put the proverbial finger right on the real issue. When it comes to leadership in the local congregation, God’s design is that elders be ordained to guide the flock. While Ephesians 4:11-12 certainly emphasizes the role of the evangelist, it…