Tag Archives: Setting an example

Modeling

The primary practical reason that character is so important in an elder is that modeling godliness for others is central to his work. He is to “set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12 NIV 1984). He is to shepherd God’s flock in a way that is “eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to [him], but being [an example] to the flock” (1 Pet. 5:2–3 NIV 1984; cf. Titus 2:7–8). Paul wrote to the Thessalonians,

“you know how we lived among you for your sake.”

And his deliberate example had its intended effect, because they became

“imitators of us and of the Lord” (1 Thess. 1:5–6 NIV 1984).

Elders lead first and foremost by example.

The examples set by the elders will be significant in helping shape the congregation’s idea of what spiritual maturity looks like. An elder may set a good example or a bad example, but he will not be able to avoid setting one or the other. As elders model holiness in lifestyle, gentleness in speech, selflessness in relationships, soundness in doctrine, and a loving concern for other members of the congregation, the church will be encouraged to think of godliness in like manner, and the pastor’s preaching will be illustrated by these moving pictures of godliness. Conversely, if an elder models questionable lifestyle choices, quarrelsome speech, and preoccupation with getting his own needs met, the church will be instructed to think of godliness in this way, and the pastor’s preaching will likely be contradicted by the false image of maturity projected by such an elder.

The examples set by elders will also be significant in developing the corporate witness of the church in the surrounding community. As church members follow the examples of their leaders, their behavior will usually become either more or less godly, depending on the examples being set. The examples of the elders will begin to cultivate a corporate culture among the congregation that is watered at least in part by their own character, speech, and behavior as leaders. Over time, that corporate culture will become more and more evident to the surrounding community as members interact with their neighbors and model Christianity for them.

What will your church be known for in the community ten years from now? Will it be distinctively Christian love, holiness, and doctrine? Or will your church simply be a reflection of the culture? The answer, in large part, lies in the character modeled by the elders. Are they modeling distinctively Christian love, holiness, and doctrine? Or are they simply reflections of the culture?

How to Build a Healthy Church, A Practical Guide for Deliberate Leadership, Mark Dever and Paul Alexander