Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Respect Your Elders

Bryan Schneider · July 3, 2021

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

sharonrpc.org/sermons/respect-your-elders

Summary

Christ gives qualified elders to labor among, lead, and admonish his people, so a congregation should know and recognize them.
An elder's authority is derived from Christ and bounded by Scripture rather than based on personality or personal preference.
The difficult work of correction belongs to faithful shepherding, following Jesus' own combination of gentleness and truthful rebuke.
Christians should esteem elders in love for their work through prayer, encouragement, honest communication, participation, and patience with their weaknesses.
Peace in the church does not require ignoring sin; it requires distinguishing moral issues from preferences and pursuing reconciliation in the order Christ gives.

Do I know my elders well enough to pray for them and receive their shepherding?
When an elder gives biblical correction, do I examine it humbly or dismiss it because it is uncomfortable?
Do I distinguish a genuine moral concern from a personal preference before confronting someone?
Have I spoken directly and lovingly to the person involved, or have I spread frustration to others?
How can I encourage faithful church leaders while still offering honest feedback?

Elder: A qualified overseer entrusted by Christ to shepherd, teach, rule, pray for, and admonish a local congregation.
Derived authority: Authority that belongs to church officers only under Christ and within the limits of his Word.
Admonition: Patient but direct warning or correction intended to turn someone from doctrinal or moral error.
Church peace: Harmony rooted in shared love for Christ, honest communication, mutual patience, and biblical reconciliation rather than avoidance.