Honor Those Taking the Lead

Congregation elders are appointed by holy spirit, yet they are still imperfect and make mistakes.  (Psalm 130:3; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Acts 20:28; James 3:2)  As a result, some in the congregation  may feel dissatisfied with the elders.  How should we react when we feel that something in the congregation is not handled just right, or at least as it seems?  Note the contrast between the first-century false teachers and angels:  "Darling, self-willed, they [false teachers] do not tremble at glorious ones but speak abusively, whereas angels, although they are greater in strength and power, do not bring against them an accusation in abusive terms, not doing so out of respect for Jehovah."  ( 2 Peter 2:10-13)  While the false teachers spoke abusively of  "glorious ones"-elders who were given authority in the first-century Christian congregation-the angels did not speak abusively of the false teachers who  causing disunity among the brothers.  The angels, being in a superior position, and having a keener sense of justice than humans, were aware of what was taking place in the congregation. Yet, "out of respect for Jehovah," they left the judgment to God. -Hebrews 2:6, 7; Jude 9.

Even if something is not handled just the way it should be, should we not have faith in Jesus Christ as the living Head of the Christian congregation?  Should we not respect his way of handling the situation and recognize his ability to control matters?   Really, 'who are we to be judging our neighbor?"  (James 4:12; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Colossians 1:18)  Why not bring your concerns before Jehovah in your prayers?

Because of human imperfection, difficulties or problems arise.  there may even be times when an elder errs, causing some to be disturbed.  Our acting hastily under such circumstances will not change the situation. It may only serve to aggravate the problem.  Those having spiritual discernment will wait on Jehovah to set things straight and administer whatever discipline needed on  his own time and way. -2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 12:7-11.

What if you feel distressed over some matter?  Rather than talking to others in the congregation, why not respectfully approach the elders for help?  Without being critical, explain how you have been affected.  Always have "fellow feeling" for them, and maintain respect as you confide in them.  (1 Peter 3:8)  Do not resort to sarcasm, but trust in their Christian maturity.  Appreciate any Scriptural encouragement that they may kindly offer.  And if it appears that other corrective measures are needed, have confidence that Jehovah will guide the elders to do what is good and right. -Galatians 6:10; 2 Thessalonians 3:13. 

However, there is yet another aspect to consider with regard to honoring and respecting those who are in authority.  Should not those who are put in a position of authority respect the ones who are placed in their care?  Let us examine that in the next article.

Next time: "ALL YOU ARE BROTHERS"a

The Watchtower, 2000