New Elder Installation

Scripture References: 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-4; Hebrews 13:17

Intro: Welcome, especially if you're new! Today is significant as we formally install new leaders. Leadership is God's gift to His church – people who sacrifice, guide, and protect the flock. We affirm today that leadership, specifically eldership (pastors/overseers) in God's household, is vital for health and mission.

Key Points:

1. Eldership Refresher: Elders/pastors are the primary spiritual leaders. The role emphasizes maturity, leadership responsibility (overseeing), and shepherding care. They lead as a team (plurality) with loving authority, not lording it over (1 Pet 5). Their responsibilities include prayer, ministry of the Word, guarding doctrine, vision, appointing leaders, and overall care/governance.
2. Character is Key (1 Tim 3): The essential qualification isn't gifting or charisma, but proven godly character: above reproach, able to teach, manages family well, hospitable, gentle, not lover of money, good reputation, etc. Leadership means fewer rights and more responsibility, modeling Christ.
3. The Appointment Process: Appointing elders isn't hasty. It involves discerning God's call, observing character over time, testing within leadership contexts, and crucially, seeking affirmation from the congregation regarding the candidate's life and reputation.
4. Presenting New Elders: Today, after this careful process (including congregational feedback with no objections), we joyfully install Steve Whitmer and Eric Riley as elders/pastors alongside the existing team. Steve & Becky Whitmer serve dually here and in Canada. Eric & Lori Riley have served faithfully here for years. Both couples have demonstrated character, calling, and commitment.
5. Why Eldership Matters (Personal Testimony): Eric Riley shares his journey from conversion to recognizing the value of leadership. Being an elder is a "noble task" (1 Tim 3:1) because the Master (Jesus) is glorious. The goal isn't position, but seeing Jesus exalted and His gospel transforming lives in Visalia and beyond. Elders help lead the church in this mission.

Conclusion: God gifts His church with leaders. Today we receive Steve and Eric as elders, recognizing God's call and character in them after a thorough process. They join the team responsible for shepherding and equipping this body for God's mission.

Call to Action:

1. (Charge to Elders): Shepherd the flock diligently, watch over your life and doctrine, endure hardship, equip the saints, guard the faith, prioritize Jesus/marriage/family. Lead with humility, courage, and dependence on the Spirit.
2. (Call to Congregation): Receive these elders and their authority in Christ. Honor them as God's servants. Submit to their leadership with humility and trust, making their job a joy (Heb 13:17). Pray for them and their families.
3. (Communion): Come to the table remembering Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, whose blood purchased the flock these men now help lead.