Elders - A Solemn Charge

On January 2, 2013, Richard Winters died.  He was the commanding officer of Easy Company, the Army unit who fought from the beaches of Normandy in June 6, 1944 to the capture of Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest at the end of the Second World War.  In speaking of their commanding officer, one member of Easy Company said, “He was the first one out there, yelling.”  He led by example so that his men would follow him into whatever danger awaited them.

Paul gives the elders of the church in Ephesus the same type of charge.  Where Richard Winters was leading his men into the face of death to fight the Nazi war machine, Paul leads those under him into the face of persecution and possible death to fight the enemy of God.  Acts 20:13-38 provides for us a small window into the mindset and desire of Paul as he speaks to these Ephesian elders whom he will never see again.  His heart pours out to them, charging them to follow his example of fearless faith, protection of the flock under their leadership, and a willingness to give their lives sacrificially for the sake of the body of Christ and His gospel.

Paul makes clear to us the role of the spiritual leaders within our local congregations.  They are to follow his example as he follows the example of Christ.  Are we willing to submit to the leadership over us, which is placed upon them by God, and allow them to lead in a Godly manner?  How are we encouraging those in spiritual leadership positions?  Are we willing to follow their Godly example or do our own desires of independence dominate our walk with Christ?

May God give us the courage and desire to follow the Godly spiritual leaders placed over u
s.