Sermon

INTRODUCTION

Officers in the

Family of God

There’s no weird like family weird

A prime qualification for being a Deacon and Elder relates to being a family

manager

The reason is that if he can’t manage his own household, how can he manage the church or household of God?

Officers who lead with a Christ-centered, gospel driven heart will be able to minister effectively to the family of God.

Members who are living out of the gospel will be easier to lead

A MINISTRY OF EXAMPLE

Be the lead followers of Jesus

Men worthy of respect

Sincere

Not indulging in much wine

Not pursuing dishonest gain

Must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience

Must first be tested

Women worthy of respect

Not malicious talkers

Temperate

Trustworthy in everything

Additional requirements for married male deacons

A one-woman man

Manages his children and household well

THE CHURCH AND FAMILY SHARE QUALITIES THAT IF ONE MANAGES HIS FAMILY

WELL HE IS ALSO QUALIFIED TO MANAGE THE

CHURCH

THIS IS SERIOUS BUSINESS –

There is grave danger to the church if a man doesn’t lead his own family, but is asked to lead the church.

Are parents responsible for their kids’ behavior?

Children are responsible before God to honor, and obey and respect and be submissive to their parents. And parents -- especially fathers -- are responsible to have honoring, obedient, respectful and submissive children.

THE GOSPEL MUST BE OPERATIVE

Jesus is the perfect example of a servant leader

(deacon) and of a caring shepherd (elders).