"I've been loafing as an elder" was the public confession made recently by a Dallas elder as he responded to the invitation during a church worship service. Since public confession is usually reserved for a select group of "black sheep" the brethren who witnessed the confession of one of their bishops were quickened and inspired. It occurs to me that the item of most particular significance is the very wording of his confession -- "I've been loafing as an elder."

The confession seems to imply that the eldership is not an office to be held, as many regard it, but a work to be done. Not an honor but a function. Hence, an elder may meet all technical qualifications, he may lead a morally circumspect life, and he may faithfully preside over the administrative affairs of the congregation, and still fall far short. There is yet a greater work to be done and a nobler function to be fulfilled -- "for they watch in behalf of your souls, as they that shall give account" (Heb. 13:7). What an awesome task. Little wonder that confession for falling short is occasionally needed. May God bless that Dallas elder.

Via Broadway Bulletin

Truth Magazine VIII: 12, p. 20 September 1964