The Sword & The Trowel TS&TT: God's Gift of Elders to His Church
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Mar 5, 2026 A lively discussion of eldership’s biblical basis and practical qualifications. They explore moving to a plurality of elders and why that safeguards pastoral care. Practical training methods are offered, from mentoring to sermon rotations. They tackle decision-making among elders, member submission and church discipline. Character, competency, calling and chemistry get special attention.
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God Shepherds Despite Fallen Elders
- Even sinful, limited elders fit God's ordained oversight because Christ is the over-shepherd.
- Tom Ascol cites Ezekiel 33 and Jeremiah to remind listeners God judges shepherds but ultimately shepherds his people himself.
Church Is A Christocracy Not A Democracy
- The local church is not a democracy but a Christocracy with Christ as head.
- Tom Ascol explains members and elders must submit to Christ's rule, not simply majority preference or pastor whims.
Keep Congregation Responsible For Doctrine And Discipline
- Preserve congregational authority in doctrine and discipline while elders lead and exhort.
- Tom Ascol points to Galatians 1 and Matthew 18 to show churches must act corporately against false teaching and in discipline.