Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others: Empowering others in church leadership involves entrusting practical responsibilities, such as meeting needs and handling resources, to elders rather than centralizing authority in a single leader. This approach encourages elders to directly engage with the community, build trust, and develop deeper relationships, ensuring that care and ministry extend beyond one person and reflect the biblical pattern of shared responsibility and mutual support.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
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Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Scriptures used in this lesson:
1 Corinthians 10:6, 1 Corinthians 10:11, Numbers 1:4-5, Titus 1:5-6, Acts 11:29-30, Acts 20:17, Acts 20:28, Acts 15:7-22, 1 Timothy 5:17, James 5:14-15, 1 Thessalonians 5:12,
1. The Purpose of Biblical Examples
1 Corinthians 10:6
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
1 Corinthians 10:11
11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
In 1 Corinthians chapter 10, Paul discusses how the nation of Israel came out of Egypt, passed through the sea, and followed the cloud. They ate manna and drank water from the rock. Despite these miracles, many died in the wilderness. Paul explains in verses 6 and 11 that these events happened as examples for us.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
These biblical accounts serve as warnings so we would not crave evil things as the Israelites did. The Scripture says their experiences were recorded as examples, providing us with guidance so that we do not make the same mistakes. When we face challenges, we can look to their stories for instruction and correction.
Verse 11 reinforces this idea. Paul says that what happened to the Israelites was written for our instruction, specifically for those living during the “end of the age.” Reflecting on this, I am in awe of how God used these ancient events to teach us important lessons that remain relevant today.
Numbers 1:4-5
4 “With you, moreover, there shall be a man of each tribe, each one head of his father’s household.
5 “These then are the names of the men who shall stand with you: of Reuben, Elizur the son of Shedeur…
The idea of standing with Moses is something I have been studying for the past few weeks, particularly as it relates to the concept of eldership.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
The topic has evolved from simply standing with Moses to considering eldership in the church. That happened because this is where I am in my study, and I believe the Lord is guiding me to focus on this now. I am grateful for the opportunity to take the time to examine the topic of eldership closely. This is an essential moment in our church’s history. It feels unique that we can pause, pay attention, and try to do things right.
I want to ensure that we are not rushing the process or selecting elders solely because the scripture instructs us to do so. I know the Bible calls for elders, but I also want to be sure we are following the scriptures correctly. We have spent the last several weeks studying various passages on this topic, and tonight, I want to conclude this study.
2. Qualifications and Character of Elders
Titus 1:5-6
5 For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee…
6 If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Paul instructed Titus to stay in Crete so that he could set things in order and appoint elders in every city, as Paul had previously instructed. One of the first responsibilities Titus had was to appoint elders. This was an essential task because someone had to ordain elders to lead the church communities officially.
Titus 1:6 outlines the key qualifications for an elder. An elder must be blameless, the husband of one wife, and have faithful children who are not accused of riot or unruliness. The verse specifically uses the term “elder,” making it distinct from other passages that typically refer to overseers or deacons.
We have already discussed what it means for an elder to be blameless, with a focus on finances and indebtedness. We also spent time understanding the requirement to be the husband of one wife. The word “one” is clear—Paul is emphasizing that an elder must have only one wife, not multiple. The meaning is straightforward and leaves no room for other interpretations.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
The next part of the verse instructs that an elder must have faithful children, not accused of riot or being unruly. “Faithful children” means children who believe—who are not wild, disobedient, or without moral restraint. The Greek word for “riot” means living without moral restraint, being immoral. “Unruly” means unsubdued—wild, disobedient, rebellious. If a man’s children are out of control and disobey their parents, it raises serious concerns about his qualification to be an elder.
The main point is that if a man cannot effectively lead and minister to his own family, he cannot be expected to lead in the church. The home is seen as a miniature version of the church. The ability to minister to one’s own family shows the capability to minister in a larger community. If I cannot reach my own children with the gospel, I will not be able to get or influence others’ children in the church.
These qualifications show a pattern—the qualifications for elders, deacons, and overseers always relate back to the home. If someone wants to see what kind of overseer I am, they should look at my household: Are my finances handled well? Is my marriage healthy? Are my children faithful and obedient?
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Acts 11 describes how, when a famine was prophesied to strike Jerusalem, the disciples in Antioch decided to send financial support to help the believers in Judea. Each person gave according to their ability. The collected aid was entrusted to Barnabas and Saul, who then delivered it to the elders—not to James, Peter, or any of the apostles, but specifically to the elders (Acts 11:29-30).
3. Elders as Practical Ministers in the Early Church
This passage highlights a crucial responsibility of elders: ministering directly to the practical needs of the people. The elders were given the aid because they were in the best position to know who needed help and how to distribute support fairly. The early church trusted the elders with these tasks, showing that elders were not just spiritual leaders but also caretakers and practical administrators within the community.
You observe that in your own church, many people come to you with their needs because they see you as accessible and able to provide practical help—often financial. However, this model creates a bottleneck, where you become the focal point for relief and problem-solving. Acts 11 suggests a different approach: empowering elders in the congregation to handle needs directly. This allows the community to see that elders as a whole are responsive and trustworthy, not just one individual.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
If a need arises, rather than personally handling every request or always being the one to disburse funds, you could assign an elder to investigate, determine the scale of the need, and ensure resources are delivered. This both lightens your own load and reinforces trust, authority, and responsibility among the elders—aligning more closely with biblical practice.
Acts 11:29-30
29 And in the proportion that any of the disciples had means, each of them determined to send a contribution for the relief of the brethren living in Judea.
30 And this they did, sending it in charge of Barnabas and Saul to the elders.
Acts 11 describes how, when a famine was prophesied to strike Jerusalem, the disciples in Antioch decided to send financial support to help the believers in Judea. Each person gave according to their ability. The collected aid was entrusted to Barnabas and Saul, who then delivered it to the elders—not to James, Peter, or any of the apostles, but specifically to the elders (Acts 11:29-30).
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
This passage highlights a crucial responsibility of elders: ministering directly to the practical needs of the people. The elders were given the aid because they were in the best position to know who needed help and how to distribute support fairly. The early church entrusted the elders with these tasks, demonstrating that elders were not only spiritual leaders but also caretakers and practical administrators within the community.
You observe that in your own church, many people come to you with their needs because they see you as accessible and able to provide practical help—often financial. When one person is responsible for everything, it creates a bottleneck, making them the focal point for relief and problem-solving. Acts 11 suggests a different approach: empowering elders in the congregation to handle needs directly. This allows the community to see that elders as a whole are responsive and trustworthy, not just one individual.
If a need arises, rather than personally handling every request or always being the one to disburse funds, you could assign an elder to investigate, determine the scale of the need, and ensure resources are delivered. This both lightens your own load and reinforces trust, authority, and responsibility among the elders—aligning more closely with biblical practice.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Elders in the early church were closely involved with the people—they lived among them, visited them in their homes, and built relationships through daily life. Unlike leaders such as James, who couldn’t personally know everyone’s individual circumstances, elders were positioned to understand and respond to specific needs within the community. This enabled them to be effective in ministering to practical needs and fostering unity.
There was a recent situation where a need could have been addressed by someone else without my direct involvement. If another elder had taken care of it, not only would the need have been met, but it would have also encouraged and spiritually blessed both the person who gave help and the one who received it. This approach builds trust and belief in the elders collectively, not just in the pastor. Over time, people will learn they can turn to various elders, strengthening the relationships and fabric of the church community.
The key to knowing and meeting needs as an elder is to spend intentional time with the people: Be present in their lives, visiting homes, and sharing daily experiences. Regularly communicate—talk with people at church, call them on the phone, and show interest in their well-being. Build genuine relationships so people feel comfortable sharing their needs.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
This relational ministry ensures needs are discovered and addressed promptly, without always relying on the pastor or a single leader. It empowers the entire eldership, creates deeper connections, and models the biblical pattern where elders serve as shepherds among the flock, not distant administrators.
The telephone can be a powerful tool for spreading the gospel and ministering to others. When used correctly, it becomes an effective means of reaching out and building relationships. However, it can also cause harm if misused.
4. The True Nature and Recognition of Eldership
A title alone does not make someone an elder. In the world, people may receive a title and then try to live up to it. In the kingdom of God, this approach does not work. A person must already show the qualities of an elder before being recognized as one.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
If someone is not already standing with the leader, ministering belief, fulfilling the scriptural qualifications, and knowing the people’s needs, giving them the title of elder will not change them. Placing the title on someone unprepared can create problems, even causing division and strife among close friends. It will put them into a new level of spiritual warfare.
Being an elder is about who you truly are, not just what you do. Getting closer to leadership often reveals a person’s real character, as seen with Moses, Miriam, and Aaron. True eldership must come from proven character and relationship, not just from a name or position.
From a distance, things can look flawless and impressive—like the wall that appears smooth and perfect from across the room. However, upon closer inspection, the imperfections become apparent: nail holes, missed caulk or paint spots, uneven joints, and other minor flaws. This is just like our lives. The closer someone gets to me, the more they will see my flaws, because no one is perfect.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
In leadership, especially in eldership, this principle is essential. If someone is not already living out the qualities of an elder—standing with the leader, ministering to their beliefs, meeting scriptural qualifications, and truly knowing their needs—simply giving them an elder title will not solve anything. As people serve together more closely, flaws will become more visible.
If a person is not prepared or spiritually mature, the process of close ministry will expose weaknesses rather than build unity. Instead of growing closer, people may start to pull apart, noticing and focusing on each other’s faults. True eldership requires proven character and a relationship beforehand. Only then, when people are knit together by a shared purpose and genuine maturity, can closeness in ministry lead to support and strength, rather than division caused by exposed flaws.
The four qualities discussed are not things that someone acquires simply by being given the title of elder. These are character traits and actions that a person already lives out before being recognized as an elder. Being an elder is about who you are, not just what you do or what title you hold.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Ordaining an elder is not about granting someone authority so they can start acting like an elder. Instead, it is about confirming what God has already worked in that person’s heart and life. It is a public recognition and confirmation before God and the community that this person already lives as an elder.
This conclusion is based on a careful study of the scriptures over the past few weeks. The scriptural pattern shows that eldership is a work that God does within someone’s heart. God joins people together, and true ministry flows from that shared work and relationship, not from positions or titles. Eldership is evidence of God’s ongoing work and unity among His people.
I would like to spend the rest of our time addressing some important questions that were raised last week. These are found on question pages one through six. Before moving on to the book of Numbers, I believe it is necessary to clarify these matters regarding eldership. Resolving these questions will help us and may also answer similar questions others might have.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
I was asked if the elders in Exodus and Numbers were the same as those mentioned in the Gospels. The answer is no. There is roughly a 1,500-year difference between them, so they were not the same people physically. More importantly, their mentalities were different. The older elders, such as those in Exodus and Numbers, were focused on serving people and ministering to them. By the time of the Gospels, the mindset of elders had changed—they became more interested in gaining authority rather than serving others. The most significant change was not physical, but in their attitude toward leadership.
Another question concerned the difference between elders and overseers. This is a powerful and meaningful question.
Acts 20:17, 28
17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
In Acts 20:17, Paul calls for the elders of the church at Ephesus. In that same chapter, verse 28, he tells these elders that the Holy Spirit has made them overseers to care for God’s church. This means that elders can also be overseers—the same group of people are given both titles.
5. Distinction Between Elders, Overseers, and Church Leadership Roles
The distinction comes from the Greek words used. The word for overseer is “episkopos.” This is sometimes translated as “bishop” or “bishopric,” and usually appears in a singular form, though sometimes in plural. An example is Acts 1:20, where Judas is said to have lost his “bishopric” when he died. The word for elder is “presbuteros,” which means older and speaks to spiritual maturity. This word appears 67 times in the New Testament.
In summary, elders and overseers are connected roles. Elders focus on spiritual maturity and godly character, while overseers emphasize the responsibility of caring for the church. The same people can serve as both elders and overseers, but the terms highlight different aspects of church leadership.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
The first reason I do not believe the scripture is saying elders and overseers are precisely the same is that the Greek words used for each are different. If the Holy Spirit or the biblical authors intended for us to view these roles as identical, they would have used the same word for both. The consistent use of distinct terms suggests some difference between them.
However, the main reason I perceive them as different extends beyond just the vocabulary. As I study the scriptures, there is more depth here than just different labels. I see in the pattern of scripture that while overseers are elders, not every elder functions as an overseer. The role of overseer has special responsibilities or authority that not all elders hold. Similarly, I believe all elders can perform diaconal (servant) duties, but not all deacons are elders. Although the qualifications overlap, some differences distinguish the roles.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
For example, in the church at Jerusalem, there were apostles such as Peter, John, and James, all of whom were considered pillars. Yet, despite his prominence and frequent leadership in preaching, Peter was not the chief overseer in Jerusalem. That position belonged to James, who emerged as the chief elder or overseer of that church. This is seen throughout Acts; after the initial events, James is recognized as the key leader—especially in Acts 15, where he presides over the council and provides the authoritative word.
Likewise, in the church at Ephesus, Paul instructed Timothy to go back and set things in order, indicating that Timothy had a special oversight role, distinct from that of the other elders present in the church. This reveals a pattern in the early church, where there was both a group of elders and, at certain times or in specific locations, a single recognized overseer with particular authority or responsibility.
These examples, along with the distinct Greek terms and their usage in context, provide further evidence that the roles, while deeply related and sometimes overlapping, are not identical by design.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Paul’s first instruction to Timothy was to guard the house of God. He was told to ordain elders and restore the proper leadership at Ephesus. This indicates that the situation in Ephesus was not right and required someone to restore order.
I have observed situations where churches tried to operate with “corporate overseers.” This means two or three leaders functioning on the same level. In every case I have seen, this arrangement eventually led to problems. It never worked effectively. Over time, someone always takes on more responsibility or emerges as a leader. They show a special anointing or the ability to take charge.
In Crete, Paul sent Titus to address similar issues. Some problems needed correction, so Titus had to set things in order. One of his first tasks was to organize and appoint eldership.
Whenever I examine the structure of churches in the Bible, I notice a consistent pattern. Even if the intention is shared leadership, one person usually stands out and takes responsibility. It is not about being “above” others in a worldly sense, but about someone accepting the authority and responsibility for leading.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
We also see this pattern in the Jerusalem council in Acts 15. Although many leaders were present, James acted as the overseer. He provided leadership and fulfilled the role of guiding the process and making final decisions. This model illustrates why leadership by a single overseer is effective, while shared authority without a clear structure often fails.
Acts 15:7, 12, 13, 19, 22
7 After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “Brethren, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles would hear the word of the gospel and believe.
12 All the people kept silent, and they were listening to Barnabas and Paul as they were relating what signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles.
13 After they had stopped speaking, James answered, saying, “Brethren, listen to me.
19 “Therefore it is my judgment that we do not trouble those who are turning to God from among the Gentiles…
22 Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from
among them to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas–Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren…
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
In this passage, you see elders, apostles, and other respected church leaders gathered at what is known as the Jerusalem Council. Although many strong leaders are present, James takes on the role of overseer. He holds authority and is the one who delivers the final decision.
The main issue discussed is whether believers must be circumcised to follow Christ. This question caused a significant dispute in the early church. Paul strongly opposed the teaching that circumcision was required. To settle the matter, everyone gathered in Jerusalem for a resolution.
When you look at verse 7, you see that there was much debate. The group did not reach a consensus quickly. First, Peter stands up and speaks, sharing his perspective. Peter talks until verse 11. After Peter, the whole group becomes silent and listens to Barnabas. Then, Paul has his turn to speak. Barnabas and Paul both recount the signs and wonders God performed among the Gentiles.
There is a clear order in how the leaders approach the issue through discussion and testimony. However, even with many leaders present, it is James in his overseer position who provides the concluding judgment after all have spoken. This structure within the council highlights the importance of the overseer in guiding and finalizing decisions within the church.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
James waited and listened to all the discussion. After everyone had finished speaking, James stood up to give his response. Verse 12 notes that the debate paused. In verse 13, James began to answer. By verse 19, James declared, “Therefore it is my judgment.” Another translation uses the phrase, “my sentence is.” The Greek word used means to decide or give a verdict. James was not just offering an opinion—he was making the final decision after weighing all the arguments. Then in verse 22, the apostles and elders recognized that this spoke well to them.
His conclusion did not mean everyone was pleased with the outcome. Verse 7 indicates that there was considerable debate. In big decisions like this, some people will disagree or be disappointed. However, someone had to take responsibility for making the final call. In this case, James was that person. He was the overseer or the set man in the Jerusalem church.
This example shows why not every elder is an overseer, and not every deacon is an elder. While many can discuss and contribute, someone must have the authority and anointing to make the difficult decisions and accept responsibility. The overseer stands in that role, making judgments, taking the criticism, and guiding the church through important issues. There must always be someone willing to bear the final responsibility for leadership decisions.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
I do not believe that all deacons are elders, even though their qualifications are very similar. I also do not believe that all elders are overseers, despite overlapping requirements. We live in an era when trusting people is challenging. The corruption seen in the 1980s still continues today. Still, this does not invalidate the truth of the scriptures.
The central question remains—what are we doing, and what do we want from church life? Personally, I want a New Testament church. I want a church that functions and aligns with what Scripture teaches, both in its principles and practices. That is why I hold these views.
From my experience, co-overseer leadership has never worked well in practice. Wherever churches have tried to operate with equal authority among several leaders, it has led to pain and disappointment. People eventually get hurt, and relationships suffer. I have seen this happen, including in the early years after the church at Lafayette and the assembly came together. There was an effort at co-lead, but it failed to work.
This is why I believe every church needs an overseer—someone with apparent authority and responsibility—supported by elders. At some point, someone must be willing to stand up, make a final decision, and say, “This is it. This is what we are going to do.” That structure follows the biblical pattern and provides the leadership and direction the church needs.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
The phrase “it seemed good to us, having become of one mind” highlights the unity and agreement among church leaders. When they chose men to send with Barnabas and Paul, it reflected their unity and collective decision-making. This unity in leadership is essential. It demonstrates that healthy leadership comes from being of “one mind”—not just from titles or positions, but from shared purpose and relationship.
I was asked about how, under older church structures, the “set man” or pastor was held accountable to the elders. With the new understanding you’re sharing, the question arises—who is the set man now accountable? This is an insightful question that addresses the critical issue of spiritual accountability in church leadership.
6. Accountability and Authority in Church Leadership
The scriptural answer centers on the principle: “Know those that labor among you.” Accountability is not just about structural reporting lines—it’s deeply connected to personal knowledge, character, and trust. The Bible calls for leaders and people to genuinely know one another. Proper accountability comes from honest relationships and a clear understanding of each other’s lives, motives, and spiritual health.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
In this context, the leader’s heart is crucial. Is the set man truly seeking God? Does he embody humility, service, and biblical values? Are his decisions and actions consistent with Christlike leadership? These are the objective measures of accountability. The community is called to know their leaders, observe their lives, and discern if they are genuinely “on track.”
1 Timothy 5:17
17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
Judy asked about the meaning of “elders that rule well” in 1 Timothy 5:17. She pointed out that “rule” means to stand before the people, and that while all elders rule, some do a better job than others. Those who “rule well” are worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. This interpretation is correct. The phrase “do well” comes from a word that means doing a good or beautiful job. Elders who labor faithfully are very valuable to the church.
The main point I was making is that not all elders are expected to preach or teach from the pulpit. The scriptures do not describe all elders as public speakers. Sometimes, church traditions limit eldership to only those who can preach, excluding others who are gifted in ministering through personal interaction, healing, prayer, or practical assistance. This limitation is not scriptural.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Not every elder will be a strong public speaker or teacher, and we should not expect them to be. The overseer, on the other hand, must be “apt to teach”—meaning ready and able to instruct, correct, and guide. The Greek word used emphasizes someone who is instructive, responsible for teaching, and setting priorities in people’s lives. This is a specific requirement for overseers or bishops, not for every elder.
James 5:14-15
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
However, all elders should be equipped to minister to people in other ways. For example, James 5:14 says the sick are to call for the elders to pray for them. Elders are expected to lay hands on people, pray, and assist them in receiving healing and forgiveness. Their ministry is powerful and effective, even if they are not gifted in public teaching.
The essential teaching gift and instruction responsibility rest with the overseer. People are drawn to churches because they receive spiritual nourishment from the teachings of their overseers. However, all elders should be grounded, trained, and ready to serve in other ministries, such as healing, intercession, encouragement, and helping people grow in their faith.
In summary, not all elders need to be public teachers, but all should be effective ministers. The requirement to teach and set priorities is primarily for the overseer, while all elders support the church through diverse gifts and ministries.
Jonathan asked if there is a separate Greek word for “first” in the New Testament, different from the word for “one.” This came up during our discussion of the phrase “husband of one wife.” Yes, eleven Greek words are translated as “first” in the New Testament. If Paul had intended to say “first” instead of “one,” he had ten other words available to make that meaning clear. The list of these words is provided in the notes as evidence that “one” truly means “one.”
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Jonathan also asked who the set man or overseer is accountable to, especially since, under the old view, the overseer was seen as accountable to the elders. This is an important question. In previous times, many people lost trust in church leaders due to various scandals, and some churches developed a practice of voting on the pastor every year, expecting frequent leadership changes. This way of thinking isn’t biblical. In Scripture, the overseer functions more like the head of a family, united with the congregation through genuine relationships and a shared purpose.
I began to think about biblical leaders such as Abraham, Moses, David, and Solomon. In the New Testament, there are also the letters of James and Paul. For some, such as Timothy and Titus, there is clear accountability to Paul; however, the Bible doesn’t specify to whom every overseer is accountable. There isn’t a rigid structure. Instead, accountability is not something you formally do; it is a quality you possess. You can set up all the structures and reporting, but proper accountability comes from character, not from following a set of rules.
A person is not trustworthy simply because they are monitored; they are trustworthy because of who they are. You can require regular reports and check-ins, but if the person is not honest, no structure will make him accountable. A thief steals because he is a thief by character, not because no one is watching him. In the same way, being truly accountable is not just about actions, but about being an honest person.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
From this, I concluded that accountability is about being, not just doing. A genuine and upright person will find others to be accountable to. I believe being responsible means seeking out people who can speak into your life and who genuinely care for you. I am accountable to the congregation because I know you care about me and what is best for our church. Additionally, I am accountable to the word of the Lord, encompassing both the written scriptures and the prophetic words spoken over us. When God speaks through a prophet, I expect to act on that word. This is not just about structure, but a lifestyle of listening and responding to God.
Additionally, I am accountable to my pastor. We maintain a close relationship, and I seek his counsel on big decisions. Most of the time, I discuss significant steps with several people because I value multiple perspectives.
Proper accountability flows from character. It is nurtured by relationship and tested by whether we act on wise counsel and the word of the Lord. Structural systems are helpful, but they cannot replace the need for genuine integrity and connection within the body of Christ.
Randy pointed out that something needed to change in our situation. He saw firsthand what was happening and recognized that the old way was not working. I am not trying to single Randy out, but he was honest about the state we were in.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Everyone was aware of the problems. We all acknowledged the issues and wrestled with them internally. Instead of supporting one another, we began to examine and criticize each other. It was like looking closely at a wall and only seeing the flaws. Even though we continued to meet, we were not truly standing together in unity.
You can probably agree that there was a real need for change. God was gracious and gave us another opportunity. This brought us to our current place—a moment to rebuild and move forward.
During that period, I made one major decision entirely on my own. Usually, I seek counsel and consult with others before making such choices. This was the only time I acted without consulting anyone. Despite that, I remain accountable to my pastor and value that relationship and guidance in my ministry.
I am accountable to men in my life who I know genuinely love and care about me. These individuals are concerned about my well-being and also care about the health of this body. They do not want to see harm come to me or the church. Because of that, when they speak, I listen to them and value their advice.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Also, I am accountable to my wife. Although I listed her last, she really should come first. My decisions not only affect my own life, but also impact both of us. She is wise, intelligent, devoted in prayer, and grounded in the word of God. She loves me and cares deeply about what is best for the kingdom of God. Often, the words and wisdom I share publicly reflect her input and counsel, even though it is my voice that people hear.
Living with her keeps me accountable on a daily basis. But more than that, I consciously seek out people who can speak truth and guidance into my life. Accountability for me is not just about what I do—it is part of who I am. It is rooted in genuine, loving relationships and a willingness to listen and learn from those around me.
1 Thessalonians 5:12
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Paul urgently urges believers to “know them which labor among you.” He emphasizes this point strongly, essentially begging the church to take it seriously. Knowing those who serve within the community is vital.
It is challenging to truly get to know someone who is only around for a short time. Building trust and understanding requires a long-term relationship. For example, I have been able to serve here with great freedom and make decisions about services because the church knows me well. This liberty comes from established trust and familiarity.
If I were to leave and someone new stepped into my role, the congregation would not immediately grant that person the same level of freedom. Even if the new leader came with strong spiritual gifts, you would need time to observe and get to know him. You would only grant him or her similar liberties after you had developed confidence in their character and calling.
Paul’s instruction is explicit: knowing those who serve and lead the church is essential. Deep, lasting relationships foster spiritual growth, wise leadership, and genuine trust within the church. It takes time and an authentic connection to build that kind of knowledge and confidence.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
I have not always had the same level of freedom and trust that I have now. It took me some time to reach this point. Not many churches, if any, could have gone through what we did with leadership last September and experienced such ease and unity. It is rare for a church to handle major changes so smoothly.
The key point is the importance of knowing those who labor among you. Paul is earnest in urging believers to honestly know their leaders. This deep knowledge and relationship are vital. No church structure or set of rules can replace the need for genuine integrity and trust.
If a person is dishonest, no amount of oversight will change that. A thief will continue to steal, even if caught or punished. Proper accountability comes from who a person is, not from the systems placed around them. Being known and being accountable are internal qualities, shaped by character rather than external controls.
That is why I emphasize that I am accountable. I actively seek people who will speak truth into my life. Real accountability is about relationship and character, not just rules or positions. If you truly know me, that forms the surest basis for trust and healthy leadership in the church.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Authority, in this context, means standing before the people and sharing. Elders who do this are considered worthy of honor and even double honor. This honor is more than recognition; it also involves authority, but the two are not the same. Honor is about giving respect and acknowledgment, while authority is about influence and responsibility.
Currently, when I think of authority, it raises an alarm in my mind. I know that, for a church to function well, people need a role and a voice in decisions. Members must feel that they belong and have input. I understand this reality, and I recognize its importance for maintaining healthy relationships and active participation.
However, my primary concern at this moment is not authority, but ministry to people. The focus of elders should be on ministering to others, not on holding authority for its own sake. Authority itself is not bad. There is nothing wrong with having authority. But the goal must always be a people-centered ministry.
When I examine biblical examples, such as in Matthew 21, Jesus was challenged by elders who questioned his authority. They cared more about who gave him permission than the actual good he was doing for the people. Jesus responded in a way that showed their concern was misplaced. Those elders in error were focused on maintaining their own position, not on the needs of those being ministered to.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
I realize I may not be directly answering your question. But I want to make clear where my heart is right now. I want to see leaders and elders in the church who are less concerned about holding authority and much more interested in caring for and serving people. That is the primary goal. The ministry should always take precedence over a desire for recognition or power.
The overseer, the set man, or the pastor is also an elder. He is called to minister to people just as other elders are. I do not want my role as a leader to become so focused on making decisions that I lose sight of caring for and serving people. My priority is to see people touched, loved, and cared for. They need attention, teaching, and encouragement to live abundant lives.
I include myself in this calling. In the decision-making process, I believe many issues will naturally resolve themselves. Most of the decisions do not require formal meetings. Common sense is usually enough to handle daily matters. Over seven years, we have rarely needed meetings for major decisions. Most choices are straightforward and could be made by anyone using wisdom and practical judgment.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
However, there are times when I need counsel. In moments that require careful thought or direction, I seek out others and listen to their advice. This accountability is built on trust and relationship. There is value in hearing from others, and it would be unwise or even foolish to ignore good counsel when it is offered. My approach is to remain open to input, learn, and avoid making decisions in isolation—especially when something important is at stake.
Acts 15 gives us an example of how major decisions were made in the early church. All the leaders and key people gathered together to discuss the issue. Although everyone took part in the conversation, in the end, one person—James—gave the final word on how they would move forward. This showed that leadership involved both group discussion and a person with authority making the final decision.
In practical terms, we handle specific responsibilities, such as financial oversight, through a small group. These individuals count, review, and keep track of what is needed. Currently, there is no surplus—sometimes not even anything extra to manage. The system is transparent, and everyone involved is aware of what is happening. If anyone wanted to look at the checkbook or records, there would be no issue. Every penny is accounted for, and the process is open. This openness is essential for protection and accountability, especially considering past failures in churches that involved money and the temptation of the “lust of the eyes.”
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
The core principle here is protection—not just for the church but for myself as well. By involving others in handling the finances, there is a reduced risk of misunderstanding or accusation. Nevertheless, at this point, financial concerns are not the primary issue. The primary focus should be on ministering to people, not just gathering as elders to review financial statements.
7. The Central Focus of Eldership: Ministering to People
Being an elder is not mainly about titles or formal meetings focused on finances. The true purpose of eldership is to minister to and care for people. When serving in this way is the focus, much of the other administrative work will sort itself out.
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 2 – How to Empower Others
Other Related Sermons:
Book Of Numbers Elders Part 1 audio
Book Of Numbers Introduction audio
Also see: