Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

The following questions were designed to help you review the material in the second video segment. In this lesson we saw how the NT provides us with key analogies of the Christian leader as elder. The Christian elder is seen as an overseer, a father or parent, a colleague or team member, and a representative both of the Lord and the people of God. In some ways, to comprehend the role of elder is to gain insight into the very heart of what it means to be a leader in the Church, and a Christian leader in society. In light of this, pay careful attention to your answers to the review questions below, concentrating on being as clear and concise in your answers as possible, and using Scripture to support your conclusions. 1. What is the role of images and analogies in helping us understand the nature and the character of leadership in the NT? Why are these analogies important in communicating the nature of leadership to those in the Church? 2. What does statement mean that “the Christian leader as elder is an overseer ?” What are the limits of authority and rulership given to elders in the various affairs of the local church? 3. In what sense is the faithful service of an elder like the work of a father or parent ? How does this image help us understand the role of providing instruction and protection as well as demonstrating affection and care in Christian leadership? 4. What is the relationship between the role of an elder as a personally mature individual as well as the elder as “ one among many , and as a colleague and teammember? How does the OT help us understand the role of an elder not as an individual position but as one who exists as part of a council, a plurality of leaders? 5. In what ways ought an elder represent both the interests and purposes of the Lord and those of the body? What implications does this hold for elders to serve as agents on behalf of the community and the faith to those who are outside ? 6. Why is it important to never select elders merely on the basis of social place, wealth, academic achievement, or prominence? According to the NT, what are the criteria for which elders ought to be elected and commissioned to service in the body?

Segue 2

Student Questions and Response

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