Articles
God's Leadership in the Church
We at West Mason are very blessed to have elders who help direct the church in a way that will glorify Christ--not only in our own building, but in our community and the world at large. It is not very hard to put our trust in these individuals; not only do they meet the qualifications God has set before these men to adhere to (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9), but I am sure any one of us at West Mason can easily see that they live it and practice it every single day.
To the deacons and preachers who are a constant encouragement and help to the elders and to this church, we thank you! A special thanks is made to Randy, Kevin, and Wayne who lead this local congregation behind the scenes and guide us in ways we may not even know of and yet they do not boast, for they put others first. “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
A man who is wiser than myself once told me that if we have a gift or an opportunity to use what we were given by God to glorify Him, then aren’t we obligated to do so? (See Ephesians 2:10 and 1 Peter 2:9.) With this thought in mind, the elders can’t do it alone. As members of the body of the church of Christ, we are called to encourage and to do good works without fear or hesitation:
“So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?' Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (Hebrews 13:6-9, 14-16).
If you fit the qualifications to become an elder or deacon and you want to put in the time and effort necessary in those roles, then please talk to someone (Luke 6:31, Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 20:26, Matthew 5:37, 1 Peter 5:7, John 3:30, Philippians 4:13). To everyone who encourages, does good works, and does their best to put on Christ everyday--thank you! (Philippians 2:1-18, Galatians 6:9)
