Within The Congregation

Jehovah has provided overseers to take the lead in the Christian congregation. (Hebrews 13:17) These qualified men are to use their God-given authority to provide needed assistance and to contribute to the welfare of the flock. Does their position entitle elders to lord it over their fellow believers? Not at all! Elders need to have a balanced humble view of their role in the congregation. (1 Peter 5:2, 3) The Bible tells overseers: "Shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son." (Acts 20:28) Therein lies a powerful reason for treating each member of the flock with tenderness.

We might illustrate it this way. A close friend asks you to care for a cherished possession. You know that your friend paid a high price for the item. Would you not treat it delicately, with great care? Similarly, God has entrusted elders with the responsibility to care for a truly valued possession: the congregation, whose members are likened to sheep. (John 21:16, 17) Jehovah's sheep are dear to him-so dear, in fact, that he purchased them with the precious blood of his only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Jehovah could not have paid a higher price for his sheep. Humble elders keep that in mind and treat Jehovah's sheep accordingly.

Next time: "The Power Of The Tongue"