Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Dec 9, 2024 - Why We Need Elders”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsWhy We Need Elders
Reading: Titus 1:1-9
Just as Paul left Timothy in Ephesus, so he has now left Titus on the island of Crete to minister to the Christians there. “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you”(Titus 1:5). “What remained” is better translated “the things that are lacking”(NKJV) or “what was left unfinished”(NIV). Something is missing because churches on Crete lack elders. Fixing the problem will involve Titus “(appointing) elders in every town.” Paul is concerned about these churches moving forward without proper elderships.
But why do churches need elders? Paul sketches qualifications that are very similar to those he gives Timothy (1 Tim 3:1-7) but adds a touch more explanation. “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it”(Titus 1:9). Elders must know and hold to “the trustworthy word” because they need to be prepared to “give instruction in sound doctrine.” Elders are teachers. They must give other Christians teaching that is healthy and proper. They will also “rebuke those who contradict it,” defending what they are teaching and correcting false beliefs. Paul has grave concerns about “insubordinate” people who are “empty talkers and deceivers”(Titus 1:10) troubling the Christians on Crete. He says ominously that “they must be silenced”(Titus 1:11), yet he does not expect Titus to do this. This is a job for elders.
When churches do not have elders, something is lacking. We need qualified elders to be examples, shepherds, and wise decision makers. These qualifications make clear that they are men of integrity and proven character. Yet we also need them to provide and insist on appropriate Christian teaching, even in the face of opposition.
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One Thing to Think About: Do I appreciate and honor the elders I serve under?
One Thing to Pray For: Wisdom for our elders
