Marks of a Healthy Church #9: "Biblical Leadership"

Sermon Scripture:  1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9

Sermon Notes are available for you to follow along below or for download here.

Sermon Notes:

​What is it?
The Bible teaches that each local church should be led by a plurality of godly, qualified men called elders.
Where is it in the Bible?  Paul lays out the qualifications for elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Passages that evidence a plurality of elders in one local church include Acts 14:23, Acts 20:17, 1 Timothy 4:14, 1 Timothy 5:17, and James 5:14.
Why is it important?

• Biblical church leadership is important because, without it, God’s people are like sheep without shepherds.
  • Church structure helps us shepherd the flock of God well.
  • Church structure helps us to advance the mission of God well.

Two Biblical Offices: Elders and Deacons
Elders = Servant _________________.
Deacons = Leading _________________.
Elders: Servant Leaders of the Church (Acts 20:28-32)

• Elders ______________ under the authority of Christ.
  • Elders belong to the ______________.
  • The church belongs to _____________.
• Elders ____________ for the body of Christ.
  • Elders protect the church.
  • Elders nurture the church.
• Elders ____________ the word of Christ.
  • Elders must know God’s Word extensively.
  • Elders must communicate God’s Word effectively.
• Elders ____________ the character of Christ.
  • The Primary Question: What will happen if the church imitates this leader?
    • In his personal life…
    • In his family life…
    • In his business and social life…
    • In his spiritual life…

What are the Benefits of a Plurality of Elders?

• Biblical accountability
• ________________
• ________________
• Burden sharing
• Sets an example for the church

Deacons: Leading Servants of the Church (Acts 6:1-7)

• Deacons __________________ according to the Word.
  • They arise from specific circumstances.
  • They assume accountability for specific commands.
• Deacons ____________ the ministry of the Word.
  • Deacons ___________ elders so they can lead.
  • Deacons ___________ others so they can serve.
• Deacons ____________ the body around the Word.
  • Deacons demonstrate a _______________ character with a ________________ mindset.

Biblical Church Leaders are a Blessing, Not a Burden to the Church

• Church leaders ____________ Christ as they display His love for the church.
• Church leaders ____________ and enable the Church to accomplish our mission in the world.