How to Honor Men That God Called to Lead | We Endure Pt. 13 | Pastor Jim Jackson

Jan 24, 2022

FINANCIALLY honor the honorable elder

Elders have the difficult task of overseeing the eternal aspects of believers’ lives of which they’ll give account to God. To complete their calling, they must have unique gifting and high character standards for their public and private life, unlike any other profession. The level of integrity for their actions and attitude in the church and at home are so demanding, few should ever pursue it (1 Tim. 3:1-7; James 3:1). As pastoring is a calling, not a job, the people are to respond with respect, love, and support (Acts 20:28; 1 Tim. 5:17; Heb. 13:17). Godly pastors are like gold! Part of the support is financial, where the people’s giving to God is for men to support their families as they minister to families. Those who excel should receive double honor (Gr. diplous timē, ‘twofold value, money, esteem’), especially those who preach and teach well. Elders/pastors can be volunteers or bi-vocational, but some are called to lead the church full-time and should be paid to live at least to the level of their people (1 Cor. 9:14). Love the pastors that lead you well!

 

Correct the DISHONORABLE elder

Paul tells Timothy there may be times accusations are made against an elder/pastor. He is to take all of them seriously and discover the truth by determining if there are witnesses. Realizing there are people who may be jealous, have ulterior motives, or are emotionally toxic, accusations shouldn’t be based on unsubstantiated charges or personal feelings. There is a process for protecting the godly against lies. However, when the charges are true and are serious enough to disqualify a man, a pastor may have to be removed temporarily or permanently. Elders who sin or dishonor God publicly should be called out publicly, so people know that no one is above biblical correction and victims are protected by godly men. There is a process for protecting victims against sinful behavior.

 

Don’t make elders QUICKLY

Because of the seriousness of shepherding people for God— and the damage done when godly men do ungodly things—making men elders should be done slowly and infrequently. Choosing an elder/pastor should be done based on the long-term fruit of watching his life. Past decisions are the best indicators of future decisions!