The Example of Elders

Elders are to lead by example rather than taking the role of boss or manager. 1 Peter 5:3 explains that elders are not to lord over people but rather to shepherd and guide them.

A cold reading of Titus 1:5-8 may seem that elders are called to a higher standard of living than others, but that's not entirely true. Elders are called to be leaders in the same standard of righteousness. As such, elders should never call the congregation to a standard of learning or righteousness that they aren’t willing to submit to and the congregation should never demand that their elders hold to a higher standard of righteousness than they are willing to.

Three Ways you should follow your Elders as they Lead you by Example, to motivate holiness in the people of God:

1. You should be blameless in your family.

2. You should be blameless in your public life.

3. You should be blameless at heart.

Paul wants you to see the example in your elders so that you will be inspired to walk in their ways. But recognize first that is God’s work in you. Look to your elders as examples. But don’t forsake your own calling to pursue righteousness and virtue by the Holy Spirit.