Speaking from the perspective of an average collegiate, the roles of church positions such as eldership, are shrouded in misinformation and cultural biases. Kevin taught on the doctrine of eldership, focusing primarily on 1 Peter 5:1-11 and accompanying scriptures. He began by defining first what eldership is not. Eldership in the Bible is not a rogue dictatorship, does not consist of a lone ranger activity and is not the elite special forces of the church. In contrast to these things, eldership absolutely consists of shared leadership, gentleness, humility and an overall attitude that is to be an exact comparison to that of a shepherd. Eldership is not to be taken lightly, as the qualification can be seen in scriptures such as 1 Timothy 3:17 and the weight of the position can be seen in scriptures such as Hebrews 13:17.
All in all, Kevin defines the genetics and purpose of the eldership in what is equally to be defined as the role of any and all followers of Jesus, and that is to simply BE LIKE JESUS. John 13:14 is evidence of this as Christ provides an example to be followed. Although imperfect, elders should be aspiring toward and likewise posses the characteristics that are found in Christ and shepherd the congregation with these attributes until the Chief Shepherd, who is Jesus, returns.
So how does this apply? Just as an elder's responsibility is wrapped up in shepherding the flock, I, as a member of the body, should responsively strive to be "shepherd-able". This involves being open, accountable and obedient to the elders, not with a motivation founded upon impressing them, but rather respecting them as leaders guiding me toward the ultimate desire of my heart and their's which is growth in a relationship with Jesus Christ - the source and perfecter of our faith.
--Austin Lambert - C3 Student
Hizzah!
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