Elders will consistently be in the middle of challenging, emotionally-charged situations which will test their ability to keep their cool. For this reason, men must poses a calm, non-violent, peaceable demeanor as modeled by Christ Himself if they would serve as the Lord’s undershepherds.
It’s rarely easy to yield to the needs of others and it’s often challenging to treat people with respect and kindness. However, all Christians, and especially elders, must be gentle. Find out what it means to be gentle and why it’s so important.
Most Christians readily understand the Bible’s prohibition against drunkenness, but many may not understand what it means to get drunk and why elders and deacons appear to be given two different standards for sobriety. Paul says elders must “not given to wine” but deacons must “not given to much wine” (1 Timothy 3:3, 8). Alan Bonifay wades through these issues.
Many people have the attitude that says, “I don’t care what anybody thinks of me.” This attitude often presents itself in a life that pays little attention to the feelings and well-being of others. Dale Wellman, a man who has served as an elder for many years, informs us that disregard of other people’s opinions is not an option for Christians, especially for those who desire to be an elder.
Hospitality is one of the hallmarks of Christianity. Glen Osburn helps us in our understanding of the importance of hospitality especially for those who serve as elders.