The Gift Given to the Church
(Ephesians 4:11)
People generally dislike being told what to do. Conversely, they like someone who advocates for their own positions and supports their desires. Believers are not vastly different in this respect.
1. If Allowed to Elect
In such a state, what would happen if people were allowed to elect their overseer? Would the elected one be able to speak what the church members might not want to hear? Could they reproach the church members when they are misled by false teachings? And could the members, nurtured in such an environment, safely reach heaven? Fortunately, God has not allowed church members to elect their overseer.
2. The Shepherd Who Cares for the Church
In the New Testament, an overseer was referred to as either a pastor or an elder. Although the term ‘pastor’ is mainly used today, ‘elder’ was more commonly used in the New Testament. For example, Paul in his letter to Timothy said, “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honors, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.” It should not be assumed, due to misunderstanding, that the responsibilities of governing the church, deciding its policies, teaching the Word, and occasionally exhorting and refuting church members are equally assigned to both pastors and elders.
3. The Special Gift
Jesus Christ is the sovereign ruler of the entire universe. He, who descended into the lower parts of the earth, ascended far above all the heavens to fill all things. His sovereignty extends from Sheol, the lowest depths, to far above all the heavens. Our future also lies under His sovereignty. The gifts He has given us with the power of triumph testify to this. Let us cherish the new life given by the Lord. Let us be the church united in His power and strength and fight for His kingdom. As servants, brothers, friends, and faithful followers of the Lord, let us commit to a life lived alongside Him.
May 19, 2024
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
