Daily Thought

Some are ambitious to hold position in the assembly and such a desire is often to be commended, as here. However, it is made clear that if one anticipates that being an elder is just the holding of an office then he needs to understand that there is much more to it than that. It is work that is in view and the office-holding is very much secondary. Men who are leaders of God’s people and responsible for their care need to be of strong character and have a high moral standing among the saints and before the world. Minimum standards are set out for elders and deacons, and, indeed, for the wives of both. Attempts are made to divide the qualifications into sections but the real exercise should be to try to ensure that we fulfil them all, whether we be elders, deacons, or not. May those engaged in such demanding ministries be assured that the Lord views this service as ‘a good work’, and if well done results in a good degree, or good standing among the saints. So, too, should the believers respond by following the lead of spiritual elders in all things, and ensuring that they themselves personally aspire to the standards required in the elders, deacons, and wives. If they do not, where will the elders and deacons of the future be found?

In the assembly itself there is a need for all to behave responsibly in the gatherings, in the understanding that this is the house of God, v. 15. It is no mere gathering together of certain people, but both the Lord and the Holy Spirit are present, thus appropriate behaviour is required at all times in the presence of the living God. The local church is the pillar and ground of the truth in that it clearly declares Christ and maintains His word and testimony in spite of opposition both from without and from within. Determination is needed to do this work well.

The mystery of godliness brings the chapter to an end. These are lovely expressions of the Person of Christ from incarnation, through His spotless life here on earth, His death, resurrection and ascension and on to His being preached to the nations and the reception by many millions around the world of His gospel message. Eventually, all will be received up in glory to eternal blessing, so today we rejoice and avidly look for His coming.