The need for leadership continues at an urgent level. God’s design indicates a plan for strong leadership in every church. Timothy and Titus were directed by Paul to appoint elders. The qualifications for elders are listed accordingly.

While we understand the primary role of elders to involve the work of a shepherd, we also find that part of this role points to the responsibility of maintaining doctrinal purity.

Notice Paul’s words: “Hold fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.”

In our current world, it is doubtful there could be a greater need. However, the lack of leadership development in years past has created a vacuum where the majority of congregations do not have elders and congregations with elders have too few to deal with the challenges.

Most locations recognize the problem, but what should be done? The answer lies in our return to God’s design, which means we need to initiate a plan for encouraging, promoting, and preparing more to lead. More tomorrow…