The Elder & His Work- A Review. Part 2
Duties in the Home
A complete chapter is dedicated to the subject of visiting the sick, invalids, or elderly (33), which have several special concerns. Dickson speaks of little gifts with kind words of the sick and shut in (34), and taking special care for those thought to be on their death beds (35). In these situations it is important to seek for the “one thing needful” in the words of the afflicted, and once found, to encourage them with the promises of the gospel. He speaks of practical things such as lowness of voice and quietness of spirit when talking to the infirmed. Elders are not to be afraid to share in the joys and sorrows of a sickbed, nor shy away from the deep spiritual things of God (37).
Family worship is something that Dickson believes should be a part of every home in an elders district. It is the job of the elder to see that the practice is set up in the home and an example given on how it should be conducted (for the ignorant) (38-39). The elder should take a special interest in the education of the children, by giving the parents books to read, catechetical material, and discuss the schools the children are attending (39). Special attention should also be given to the instruction of the young men and women in their district and encourage them in the Lord as they face the new trials and pitfalls of adulthood (41).
Duties in Society
The author also believed in doing good to those within his sphere of influence. This means hospitality (50), praying with his constituents (51), fellowship meetings which may be of families or singles, males or females. The New Year is a time or reminding the folk of God’s goodness and is a special occasion among the Scottish of renewed commitment and promise to God. Dickson suggests a small gift, perhaps a book of interest to those who would benefit from it (53).
Special care should be given to those who are leaving the constituency of the elder to another district or part of the country (55). Care should be given to see that the individuals have their membership papers with them, but more importantly that they have some proper place to worship in their new town or city (55). Keeping contact with them, even after they have left is an important part of an elders work. They are still souls, and just because they are now someone else’s concern does not mean the elder should lose interest in those he has personally cared for (56). Dickson also believes that the elder should be looking for ways in which to give and exercise the office he has been given. This is not only the job of the deacon, but the elder as well (58).
Special care should be given to those who are leaving the constituency of the elder to another district or part of the country (55). Care should be given to see that the individuals have their membership papers with them, but more importantly that they have some proper place to worship in their new town or city (55). Keeping contact with them, even after they have left is an important part of an elders work. They are still souls, and just because they are now someone else’s concern does not mean the elder should lose interest in those he has personally cared for (56). Dickson also believes that the elder should be looking for ways in which to give and exercise the office he has been given. This is not only the job of the deacon, but the elder as well (58).
Within the Walls
Discipline is a vital (albeit painful) aspect of being an elder. If an elder succeeds in every aspect of his ministry, yet neglect this function of correction, he brings reproach upon the congregation and the name of the Lord. Discipline is a mark of the true Church (63). The great end and design of discipline are twofold. First to restore a wayward disciple, and second, if restoration is not possible, to protect and warn the flock of Christ from wolves (62-65).
Dickson also believe that it is the duty of the elder to encourage the people to participate in the work of the ministry. Not all members have the same gifts, but all can serve (67). It is the job of the elder to find the gifts in others and exploit them to the glory of God and the edification of the Church. This could be local or foreign mission work, Sabbath School teaching or help, distribution to the needy, etc.
According to Dickson, the elder is not only to be a fellow labourer with the minister, but he is to “hold up the minister’s hands” in support and encouragement (75). Elders are uniquely qualified to help in this way because they are in the ministry and in the world at the same time. Counsel, aid, and special acute prayer is to be given by the elder for the minister and help him in his office. Attendance to the meetings is one special way of encouraging the minister (76). How will a minister feel if his ministry is not attended by his fellow labourer? How will this look to the flock? An elder is supportive in action and word, not just word.
Warm-hearted sympathy is also a duty of the elder toward the minister (77). The pressures of the ministry are unique to this position and are greater than most are aware. The elder is to alleviate the practical issues of the ministry as much as possible so the pastor may engage in lone uninterrupted meditation (79). The minister and elders should meet regularly not only to conduct business but to fellowship with one another (80). It is also suggested that ruling elders meet together for mutual encouragement in an interdenominational fashion (81).
The last chapter centers around difficulties and discouragements faced by the ruling elder as he discharges the work of the ministry. Dickson taps into the well of his own experience and relates powerful truth through anecdotes (83). Dickson insists that the trials of life have valuable lessons to teach the elder if he is willing to listen. Elders would do well to see the Lord’s hand in every aspect of the ministry and learn the lessons that bring wisdom and strength.
Dickson concludes with an exhortation to honour the Holy Spirit (87) in every aspect of the ministry among God’s people. The Spirit work is indispensable in the work of the ministry and Dickson insists that we can not live on past successes of the Church, but must look for fresh avenues of success through the ministry of the Word. Elders must seek the Spirit afresh on every occasion. And the Holy Spirit will give freely to all who ask in earnest expectation. Dickson realizes that every elder, be he a teaching or ruling elder needs to know what it is to rely upon the Sovereign Spirit in all things.
When the Lord comes, may he find faithful workers like Mr. David Dickson in His vineyard.
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November 6th, 2006 at 9:06 pm
This is a great book. I bought a copy for each of my elders. BTW, I am listening to your sermon Preparation for Rain on sermon audio. Thank you for calling the church to her duty.
November 6th, 2006 at 9:35 pm
Hi Nate, nice to hear from you. I trust things are going well at PRTS. Dickson’s book should be read by every RE and TE in the Church. Blessings brother!