Biblical Eldership Church Leadership

Peter’s Instruction to the Asian Elders

presbyteroi in verse 1 as an official title of office; the connective word “likewise” in verse 5, which can mean a continuation of the same topic (cf. 326,7); and the call to “subjection,” suggesting authority rather than just respect, it seems more probable that Peter is referring to the official elders of the church. Peter has just exhorted the elders not to lord it over the flock. Now he feels compelled to instruct the younger men to subject themselves to the elders. The “younger men” who are diligently working—eager for change and further service—are the ones who are most likely to conflict with the church elders. Polycarp, in his letter to the Philippian congrega tion, also encouraged the younger men to submit to the elders: “In like manner also the younger men must be blameless in all things. . .submitting yourselves to the presbyters and deacons as to God and Christ.”18 If the eldership is stagnant or ineffective, the younger men are the ones who are most likely to be discontent. Peter Davids’s vivid portrayal of the natural tension between young people and the church elders bears repeating: It appears best, therefore, to see the “younger” here as the youthful people in the church. . .. Such younger people are often (but not necessarily) junior leaders, ready to learn from and assist those directing the church. . .but their very readiness for service and commitment can make them impatient with the leaders, who either due to pastoral wisdom or the conservatism that often comes with age (the two are not to be equated) are not ready to move as quickly or as radically as they are. It would be quite fitting to address such people with an admonition to be subject to their elders. Indeed, particularly in a time of persecution their willingness to take radical stands without considering the consequences could endanger the church.'9 The best training a Christian young man can have in preparation for church leadership is to first learn to submit to those in spiritual leader ship. A spiritually keen young man can gain invaluable wisdom and leadership skills through the experience of older, godly men, even if they are not paragons of leadership excellence (which most are not). Knowing the ever-lurking potential for disagreement, fighting, and division between all parties within the local church that is ac centuated by the pressures of a hostile society, Peter offers the best

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