Who Are the Elders?

An episode of the First Baptist Church of Wisconsin Rapids podcast, hosted by First Baptist Church, titled "Who Are the Elders? " was published on January 20, 2026 and runs 32 minutes.

January 20, 2026 ·32m · First Baptist Church of Wisconsin Rapids

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Summary

SummaryIn this sermon, Josh emphasizes the importance of strong leadership within the church, advocating for a unified board of elders to guide the congregation effectively. He argues that while tradition has its place, it must be examined against the teachings of Scripture to ensure the church remains focused on its mission. Josh highlights the necessity of appointing elders who are not only knowledgeable but also possess strong character, as they are tasked with shepherding the flock under Christ's guidance. He stresses that leadership should not be informal or unaccountable, as this can lead to disunity and hinder the church's mission. Instead, a well-structured leadership model is essential for the church to thrive and fulfill its purpose.Keywordschurch leadership, elders, shepherding, biblical authority, church mission, strong leadership, unity in church, character of elders, church governance, spiritual growthTakeawaysWe do not mean that tradition is bad. We mean bad tradition is bad.No army can take a field of battle or accomplish an objective without leadership.A church can weather any storm with a strong and unified board.Sound Bites"We do not mean that tradition is bad.""No army can take a field of battle without leadership.""This is God's flock. We are the sheep of His pasture."Chapters00:00 Prayer for the Church01:44 The Importance of Tradition and Leadership15:32 Defining the Role of Elders30:20 The Call to Action for the Church

Episode Description

Summary

In this sermon, Josh emphasizes the importance of strong leadership within the church, advocating for a unified board of elders to guide the congregation effectively. He argues that while tradition has its place, it must be examined against the teachings of Scripture to ensure the church remains focused on its mission. Josh highlights the necessity of appointing elders who are not only knowledgeable but also possess strong character, as they are tasked with shepherding the flock under Christ's guidance. He stresses that leadership should not be informal or unaccountable, as this can lead to disunity and hinder the church's mission. Instead, a well-structured leadership model is essential for the church to thrive and fulfill its purpose.

Keywords

church leadership, elders, shepherding, biblical authority, church mission, strong leadership, unity in church, character of elders, church governance, spiritual growth

Takeaways

We do not mean that tradition is bad. We mean bad tradition is bad.

No army can take a field of battle or accomplish an objective without leadership.

A church can weather any storm with a strong and unified board.

Sound Bites

"We do not mean that tradition is bad."

"No army can take a field of battle without leadership."

"This is God's flock. We are the sheep of His pasture."

Chapters

00:00 Prayer for the Church

01:44 The Importance of Tradition and Leadership

15:32 Defining the Role of Elders