Psalm 55:16-23, Isaiah 9:8-10:11, 1 Peter 5:1-14 - Lectionary for 12/3/11

Today's readings are Psalm 55:16-23, Isaiah 9:8-10:11, and 1 Peter 5:1-14. We run across the idea of biblical eldership frequently here. Today in 1 Peter the elders are exhorted to shepherd God's flock well. Is this a job which pertains only to pastors? Not in any way. Throughout the New Testament those men who are godly, who have a good understanding of Scripture, and who are able to teach are identified as elders. Their job, in cooperation with the apostles, prophets, and evangelists, is to shepherd God's flock. We seem to have created a distinction between elders and pastors which may not be warranted by Scripture, which rarely uses the term "pastor" except as a verb. The pastoring is a function of elders. Does this mean that we should allow leaders to emerge and direct the church willy-nilly? Not at all. The elders are to be qualified. This may or may not include an extensive formal education or a "full-time call." But it definitely involves training, dedication, oversight, accountability, and consistency. It's a serious office, the most clearly spelled-out office of the Church in the New Testament. How do the elders shepherd God's flock? They care for their needs. They are there to provide them with biblical counsel. They are present to encourage and to rebuke. They are there to bring God's words of Law and Gospel to the saints. They are there to lead the younger believers, training them up to be elders themselves. May the Lord raise up many elders in our midst, elders who will be good shepherds, following Christ the true good shepherd.