Phil Newton and Matt Schmucker's Elders in the Life of the Church - Part 2

 

In Part 2 of the book, Phil Newton and Matt Schmucker highlight the scriptural basis for a plurality of elders. They guide readers through four key biblical passages—Acts 20:17-31, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Hebrews 13:17-19, and 1 Peter 5:1-5—to demonstrate that this model of leadership is firmly rooted in Scripture. Additionally, Matt Schmucker shares his experience with elder plurality at Capitol Hill Baptist Church. Because this approach is biblically grounded, the authors encourage readers to re-evaluate how churches are governed and led in accordance with God’s Word.

I appreciate the term Phil uses— ‘dignified-looking wolves’—in his discussion of “Wolf Theology” on page 96. Drawing from Acts 20:17-31, Phil emphasizes that elders are called to shepherd and oversee the church of God, which Christ purchased with His own blood. Yet, the church continues to be attacked by evil forces, often through these dignified-looking wolves. This issue is especially prevalent in regions I am familiar with. In some seminaries in India, the authority of Scripture is denied, the virgin birth of Christ is dismissed, the deity of Christ is rejected, the cross as atonement for sin is denied, and even the need for salvation is questioned. Nevertheless, graduates from such seminaries have come to lead church associations/churches simply because they claim to be Baptist. These individuals are the dignified-looking wolves who threaten the flock. This is truly saddening. It is the role of pastors to guard themselves and the entire flock, yet too often, they end up entertaining these wolves within the church.

On page 106, Schmucker emphasizes the importance of elders living among the people and modeling godly lives, which speaks volumes. I am particularly drawn to a quotation he references: “We want elders who smell like sheep, not the golf course.” This vividly illustrates that elders are called to serve and live closely with their flock. If they do not dwell among the people and model Christlike character, their aspiration to eldership lacks purpose. Additionally, Schmucker highlights Mark Dever’s approach to re-nominating five prospective elders, an approach marked by deep conviction and wise counsel from the churches. Dever writes, “I have received much advice to do this. I do not take this lightly at all.” His humility in seeking godly counsel and carefully carrying out this task is truly inspiring. Such wisdom can only flow from a man guided by the Spirit.

Phil Newton insightfully explains the meaning of “aspire” in 1 Timothy 3, deepening my understanding of the passage. He notes that Paul’s use of “aspire” conveys the idea of someone stretching out their hand toward the office of pastor with a genuine desire to serve God’s people. In contrast, Newton, in the previous chapter, talks of “dignified-looking wolves”—so called pastors/minsters who pursue power and titles rather than the welfare of the flock. Entertaining such wolves in the church reveals a misguided aspiration, one driven by self-interest rather than a heart for shepherding God’s people. This serves as a sobering warning for me. As an aspiring pastor, I must love His people and “smell like sheep,” reflecting the scriptural call to aspire to pastor with a sincere desire to serve, as Newton describes.

In Schmucker's chapter on disagreements among church elders, he describes significant theological disputes, which surprised me given the maturity and godliness expected of elders. His sharp tone underscores the intensity of these conflicts, serving as a warning for my future ministry. Schmucker emphasizes a high standard for nominating new elders, requiring unanimity with up to two abstentions allowed, as not all may know the candidate well. He explains this ensures trust among elders for all decisions. I agree with this rigorous standard but wonder if allowing up to two abstentions is practical in a small church with, say, a team of 10 elders. I would like get clarification on how this method works, especially in the context of a smaller elder team.

In discussing 1 Peter 5:1-5, particularly the phrase "exercising oversight not under compulsion," Phil Newton illustrates that if a person is approached to serve as an elder and declines because they believe they lack the necessary character or desire for the role, forcing them into service would align with human will rather than God's. Newton emphasizes that elders should serve willingly, guided by divine direction, thus fulfilling God's will. I appreciate this perspective because it is spot-on! In an honor-shame culture like mine, it is customary to initially decline an invitation to serve in the church, not as a genuine refusal but as a sign of respect. However, in many cases, the refusals are sincere and firm. Despite this, the church often misinterprets these refusals due to cultural norms, persistently urging individuals to become elders or deacons. Consequently, many who are coerced into service fail significantly. Consistent with Newton’s insights from earlier chapters, I believe that when approaching someone to serve in the church, regardless of the position, we should prioritize their character and willingness to serve sacrificially. Serving sacrificially does not always involve wages but often pertains to giving time, energy, comfort, and pleasure.

            I highly recommend this part of the book by Phil Newton and Matt Schmucker to my Baptist Pastor friends. Part 2, in particular, has been enlightening, as it explores four key biblical passages—Acts 20:17-31, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Hebrews 13:17-19, and 1 Peter 5:1-5—that clearly demonstrate the scriptural foundation for a plurality of elders in the church. These passages have help them appreciate the beauty and biblical grounding of this leadership model. Furthermore, Matt Schmucker’s account of Capitol Hill Baptist Church’s transition from congregationalism to a plurality of elders will inspire them.