Becoming a Biblical Elder

In the next few months, Benoni Baptist Church will begin a round of Becoming a Biblical Elder. This won’t appeal to everyone. But it will appeal to some of the serious.

Let me tell you why this matters to me. I have seen churches weaken. And I know the cause is seldom dramatic. It is through the slow loss of men who know the Word, love the Word, and are shaped by the Word. I desire more for Benoni Baptist Church.

The work of an elder is a fine work. Paul says so. But it is not a work to be entered lightly. It is a work for men who are qualified, able, and tested. Men who will give an account. That’s why training is so important.

Over the past two years, Gerhard Wessels has completed this training. The executive brought his nomination as elder to the AGM next Sunday. Evans Odhiambo is working through this training alongside his seminary education. And the executive brought his nomination as deacon to the same meeting. We need more Gerhard and Evans.

Let me tell you why this may matter to you. Because you will not grow in discernment by accident. You will not become a man of conviction by drifting. You need to work out your theology. Not borrow it. Not assume it. Work it out. With fear and trembling. And then come together with other men to sharpen it.

We will meet once a month. Between sessions you will read. You will write. You will wrestle with the text and with your own heart. And when we gather, we will have robust discussion. Iron sharpening iron.

Some of you are ready to sign up. You know in your heart who you are.

Some of you need to think first. That is wisdom, not weakness.

If you want to think it through, work through Considering Eldership. It will help you count the cost. You will find it here: https://www.xlministries.org/pdfenglish. Speak to me once you’ve gone through the content.

If you are ready to commit, apply up here: https://benonibaptistchurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/1309797.

Our church doesn’t need spectators. We need men who will take up the work, count the cost, and serve with eagerness. Not under compulsion. But willingly. As God gives strength.

I am asking you to consider. Pray. Act.