Wednesday, March 20


Have regard for those who are working hard among you and presiding over you in the Lord
and admonishing you. —1 Thess. 5:12.

In order to preside well over the flock, the elders discuss among themselves how to address the
needs of the congregation. It might be more efficient if one elder made all the decisions. Yet,
following the example of the first-century governing body,modern-day bodies of elders discuss matters
freely, seeking guidance from the Scriptures.

Their goal is to apply Scriptural principles to the needs of the local congregation. This is most effective
when each elder prepares for the elders’ meetings, considering the Scriptures and the guidelines
from the faithful and discreet slave class. Of course, this takes time. When there is a difference
of opinion, as occurred when the first-century governing body considered the matter of circumcision,
extra time and research might be needed to reach a consensus based on the Scriptures.

—Acts 15:2, 6, 7, 12-14, 28.


w11 6/15 4:11, 13
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