An elder must be poor or thrifty. An elder cannot display his prosperity, even appropriately. This refers to: A man willing to resort to dishonesty to make money. A man engaged in a business that is illegal, unethical, or immoral. Some things are legal, yet not moral or ethical. Matthew 7:12 (cf. Luke 6:31) The man who is consumed with making money any way he can: Generally won't have a good reputation. May not give proper attention to his duties as an Might even embezzle funds. (cf. John 12:4-6) Might be stingy in using the Lord's money to do the Lord's work. Keith Sharp: "Perhaps this very problem explains why so many elders worry more about the money expended on seed and sod than on the teaching extended to saints and sinners." ("Qualifications Of Elders (4)," Guardian Of Truth, Oct. 22, 1981, p. 662) This qualification is absolutely essential for the man who would be a shepherd of the Lord's people and the Lord's money. Questions: Does this man use questionable methods for obtaining money? Does he have a reputation for taking advantage of people financially? Is he honest and above board in his business dealings? "Gentle" [epieikes] (1 Timothy 3:3) Other translations: "Gentle" (ASV, CEV, ESV, Holman, RSV, NASV, NIV, NKJV, NRSV, Young) "Patient" (KJV) "Forbearing" (Marshall) "Of a forbearing disposition" (NEB) "Sweetly reasonable" Definitions:
An elder must be poor or thrifty. An elder cannot display his prosperity, even appropriately. This refers to: A man willing to resort to dishonesty to make money. A man engaged in a business that is illegal, unethical, or immoral. Some things are legal, yet not moral or ethical. Matthew 7:12 (cf. Luke 6:31) The man who is consumed with making money any way he can: Generally won't have a good reputation. May not give proper attention to his duties as an Might even embezzle funds. (cf. John 12:4-6) Might be stingy in using the Lord's money to do the Lord's work. Keith Sharp: "Perhaps this very problem explains why so many elders worry more about the money expended on seed and sod than on the teaching extended to saints and sinners." ("Qualifications Of Elders (4)," Guardian Of Truth, Oct. 22, 1981, p. 662) This qualification is absolutely essential for the man who would be a shepherd of the Lord's people and the Lord's money. Questions: Does this man use questionable methods for obtaining money? Does he have a reputation for taking advantage of people financially? Is he honest and above board in his business dealings? "Gentle" [epieikes] (1 Timothy 3:3) Other translations: "Gentle" (ASV, CEV, ESV, Holman, RSV, NASV, NIV, NKJV, NRSV, Young) "Patient" (KJV) "Forbearing" (Marshall) "Of a forbearing disposition" (NEB) "Sweetly reasonable" Definitions:
Elders-Lesson-4-Handout.docx