Living in God's Family (Elders & Deacons)

Bible references: Ps 51; Gal 3; 1 Timothy 3.

We all realise that churches are to be governed in theocracy.   Most governments are democracy. God appoints from above whereas our politicians are appointed from below.
God wants his church governed by a theocracy.   Leaders who are appointed by God.  A good structure where leadership is respected and the people are respected.  A lot of Australia people have lost respect of church leadership and vice versa.

Titus 1:1-9

If you can't run your family how can you run a church?  These leaders, are responsible for the spiritual care of the church.  We are accountable for holding each other up.

Hebrews 13:7; 1 Thessalonians 2:5

Abuse does not have a place in God's Family.   Judgement comes first to the house of God.  Leaders should be respected in the local community.  They will have a personal morality.  We put in our faith in Jesus because we love him.  Leaders must have authority in their own family.  Not be arrogant or bossy.  God gives them a gift to do leadership.   They must have the ability to recognise false teaching and the ability to silence the false teachers.

Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:1- 16

Leaders - pray for church, teaching, lifting up the church; ability to expose false teaching.

Deacons - personal morality, good standing in community, spiritual maturity, appointed by the church.

We are to make sure the right teaching - the gospel.  We are to keep our focus on Jesus.

Church leader - willingness to lead; it's difficult.    1 Peter 5:1-5

Example:  Moses  - how God provides leadership.  John 21

3 ordinances - baptism, communion, washing of the feet.  Our churches need to be run by servants; ie those who want to serve.   God wants us to be the example.

Godly behaviour and discipline within the family.  The Church is a witness to the Truth to the entire world.   We are to uphold the Truth and keep it safe from  all attacks.

The Church is the holder of the Scripture and the doctrine of Christ.  The mystery of godliness is Christ.
In Christianity God served us; in all other religions we serve the god.

Christ who is God made flesh, served and died for us.   Gentiles to hold gospel and keep the Truth to make the Jews jealous and bring them back to God.   We are to be a pecilular people, zealous for good works.  The Gospel is pointing out and restoring our relationship with the Father (God).  Redeeming love  - Jesus Christ.

The Church to be led by men and women who love Jesus Christ and love His children.