One common human obstacle to an unbeliever coming to faith is the unauthentic and hypocritical life of people who profess to be believers. This short exhortation from Paul to the Ephesian elders has much to instruct us in regard to authentic Christian living.
We hear much and think deeply on the biblical qualifications and characteristics of elders appointed to the church, but how often do we consider the responsibility of the congregation to care for its elders? The proper practice of corporate spiritual disciplines requires us to assess our responsibilities to our elders, for the good of the church and the progress of the gospel and the glory of God.