Sometimes churches and elders have failed to take these responsibilities as seriously as they ought. That failure has always resulted in members that were spiritually weak, constantly straying and finally lost. These Christians have lacked the spirit of oneness and love that should have been theirs as brothers and sisters in God's family. Some of God's people have held to a form of godliness but denied its power. Let each Christian elder resolve to take his work seriously as a shepherd over God's flock.
Shepherds are men who care for sheep.
And let each true believer submit to the proper rule of his elders. They cannot lead unless someone follows. God will supply life, health and growth.