Growing into Christ (7)

And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful. Titus 3.14

The Elder and His Work
David Dickson (18210-1885)
“Elders of the Church should be men ready for every good work – ready to distribute, willing to communicate. To every cry for help, whether for the bodies or the souls of men, we should instinctively be disposed to say, yes, rather than no.”

Good works are not the means to salvation, but the evidence of it. We have been redeemed by Jesus unto good works (Eph. 2.10), and it is by our good works that we get the world’s attention for the glory of God (Matt. 5.13-16). But good works are not automatic; they must be nurtured, and we must discover ways of encouraging one another to good works (Heb. 10.24), until our good works are more conspicuous and more numerous even than the good works of Jesus (Jn. 14.12). The people in our churches will be much more inclined to fulfill their callings to do good if they see their leaders doing the same. The elders of the church are not a board of directors, and they are not a leadership team; rather, they are a cohort of shepherds, and shepherds must work hard to care for their flocks. As they do, they set an example for others, who will learn to devote themselves to good works as they see their elders and church leaders taking the initiative.

What are some ways that the elders and leaders of your church might be able to lead your congregation in good works among the members of the larger community?

Mission Partners Outreach
Jesus trained and deployed His followers two-by-two, to learn and serve together in proclaiming His Kingdom. Are you following this pattern? Our Mission Partners Outreach provides the resources and framework for making witness-bearing disciples in your church. Want to learn how it works? I’m currently looking for three men to work with me through this six-month training effort, which includes preparing a plan to implement this free training in your own church. Watch this brief video, then contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for more information.

The Fellowship of Ailbe is supported through the generous and faithful gifts of those who benefit from and believe in our work. Does the Lord want to use you in this way? Please look to Him in prayer over this question. You can contribute to The Fellowship of Ailbe by using the Contribute button at our website, or by sending your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Thank you.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.All quotations are from David Dickson, The Elder and His Work (Dallas: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1990).