Being a leader of God’s people is a serious task, and no one should accept an office who is not qualified and willing to use that office to help the church.
Watching (1–7). The title bishop means “overseer” and describes the work of the elder (Acts 20:17, 28). God’s people are like sheep; they need shepherds to watch over them, protect them, and lead them. Pray for your spiritual leaders that they might more and more be what God wants them to be.
Working (8–13). The word deacon means “servant.” The deacons assist the elders in carrying out the work of the church (Acts 6:1–7). As with the elders, the deacons should be qualified spiritually and set the right example in their homes.
Worshiping (14–16). The church is much more than a group of like-minded people who assemble from time to time. The living God is in their midst (Matt. 18:20), and the truth of God has been deposited with them! They worship the Son of God who alone is worthy of praise! Yes, it is a serious thing to be a part of a local church. Do you take it seriously?
