Elders
Objectives:
1. To inform the Christian about the role of elders.
2. To encourage interaction between the new Christian and his/her elders.
A. Ephesians 1:22
1. Who is the head of the body?
2. What practical implications does this fact have for us?
B. Ephesians 4:11-13
1. Define each role of service.
2. Identify the place of each role in the church today.
C. Acts 14:23 / Acts 15:1-22 / Acts 20:17-38
1. Elders were appointed in several churches.
2. What role did the apostles and elders play in the Jerusalem conference? (v. 2, 6, 13, 22)
3. When Paul said farewell to the Ephesian elders, what charge did he give them?
D. Philippians 1:1 / I Timothy 3:1-13 / I Timothy 5:17-20
1. What two special groups are singled out in the introduction of Paul's letter to the Philippians?
2. Examine traits of elders/overseers and deacons.
3. Define deacon (servant).
4. Why do you suppose Paul goes to such length to describe the traits of elders and deacons?
5. What are ways we are to "honor" our elders?
6. How are accusations against elders to be handled?
7. What is Paul's method for dealing with elders who sin?
E. Titus 1:5-9
1. What was unfinished in the establishment of God's people in Crete?
2. Examine traits of elders.
3. What do you understand the function of elders and deacons to be?
Assignments:
1. Memory verse: Acts 14:23
2. Do something for your elders this week to encourage them and demonstrate appreciation for their service.