CAUTION ELDERS

A WORD TO THE ELDERS

In the book of 1 Peter 5 verses 1-4, Peter gives an exhortation to the elders of the church. He spoke from that same position of familiarity stating that he also was an elder. Not only from that standpoint but from the fact that he was a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

He saw and witnessed first hand the qualities from a true and greatest Leader what it means to serve.  

Here's the advise he gives:  (Share your thoughts)

Feed the flock of God 
Care for it willingly and not grudgingly or what you will get out of it
Be eager to serve the Lord
Don't be tyrants
Lead by a good example

He further advises them to do so that when the chief Shepherd comes their reward will be never ending and they will share in His glory!  

This may be difficult for many who believe that a position of authority is only limited to a position of power.  They feel that they must be paid for everything they do or before they can do anything.  Some will not serve if they are not paid and have an upfront cost before they would even consider serving.  

BREAKING NEWS - YOU CANNOT SERVE FROM A RAISED POSITION!  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SERVING UNDER AUTHORITY

As equally as it is to adhere to the advise above is the ability to serve surrendering to authority.   There is too much arrogance among leaders.  Particular  between the younger and the elder.  Who's smarter, intelligent, more equipped, qualified etc.... 

Let's take a look at a few more verses.  Although directed to the younger leaders it is a model for the young and elder alike.  

1 Peter 5:5,6

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Let's do a spirit check....

How difficult it is for you to surrender to those in authority?

What does it mean to be clothed or serve with humility?

You must always consider that w

hen you submit to the authority of your leaders... 

you submit to God.

Most people can only serve when they are in charge, and are not humble to serve under others.  If they are not the boss or the one giving the orders they refuse to serve. The control must be theirs, but they forget that they serve as unto the Lord and not to themselves.  Thus the model for verses 1-4.  

These types seek their gratification and satisfaction from others and from this life.  It's more like "what's in this for me" position and not "what can I do to help"? When ask to serve self questions are ask first like... 

How much? (how much money will they be able to make for their pockets)

How many people?  (some cannot serve unless they are seen by a large crowd)

Some are "know it alls" who will not follow a theme or protocol but wants to execute their own agenda to their profit. 

Their track record and background are shady and their integrity questionable.  They serve as tyrants and Pharaohs, chest beaters with the "I syndrome" mentality.  they refuse to submit and have respect and honor for others.  They boast in their gains and self accomplishments and give no credit to God or others who have helped them to establish themselves.  

GOD HATES THOSE WHO ARE PROUD IN HIS OR HER OWN SELF

Remember, "God gives special blessings to the humble but sets Himself against those who are proud."  Serve in your leadership role (not just to pastors/ministers), as being servant of the Most High God.  Submit to each other.  Don't worry about the present reward because at the right time God will exalt you.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel