Monday, January 12



Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will
carry you off as his prey through
the philosophy and empty deception
according to the tradition of men.

—Col. 2:8.



This warning draws attention to a good reason for paying attention
to the Scriptural counsel of the elders. They defend the flock by putting
their brothers on guard against any who might attempt to undermine their faith.
The apostle Peter warned of “false prophetsâ€￾ and “false teachersâ€￾ who would
try to “entice unsteady soulsâ€￾ into wrongdoing.

(2 Pet. 2:1, 14)

Present-day elders must give similar warnings when necessary. As mature Christian men,
they have experience in life. Further, before being appointed, they demonstrated that
they had a clear understanding of the Scriptures and that
they were qualified to teach what is healthful.

(1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:9)

Their maturity, balance, and Bible-based wisdom enable
them to give skillful direction to the flock.

w13 11/15 4:8
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