How can we apply the principle of seeking counsel from elders today? Scripture Focus “Then Boaz took ten men of the elders of the city and said, ‘Sit down here.’ And they sat down.” – Ruth 4:2 What We Observe in Ruth 4:2 • Boaz treats the elders as God-ordained witnesses and decision-makers. • The elders respond promptly; counsel is not an afterthought. • The legal and relational welfare of Ruth hinges on their guidance. • Scripture records the scene as literal history, underscoring that real authority was exercised. Why God Values Elder Counsel • Exodus 18:13-23 – Moses is advised to share the load with trustworthy men. • Deuteronomy 19:12; 25:7 – City elders sit at the gate to render judgment. • Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • 1 Peter 5:5 – Younger believers are urged to “submit to your elders.” • Hebrews 13:17 – Church leaders “watch over your souls.” God repeatedly presents elder counsel as both protective and directive. Translating the Principle to Today 1. Recognize the sphere • Church: pastor-elders who guard doctrine and shepherd hearts. • Family: parents and grandparents who know our history. • Community: seasoned believers whose faithfulness is proven. 2. Move toward them, not away • Boaz “took” the elders; initiative matters. • Schedule time, share honestly, invite feedback. 3. Value collective wisdom • Boaz gathered ten men; plurality guards against bias. • Seek more than one voice for weighty decisions. 4. Submit with humility • Counsel is not a suggestion box but a safeguard. • James 1:19 – be “quick to listen” before acting. 5. Anchor counsel in Scripture • Acts 17:11 – test every word against “the word of God.” • Elders worth hearing will open their Bibles. Practical Steps for Daily Life • Keep a running list of godly elders you can call within 24 hours. • Before life-shaping moves (marriage, job switch, major purchase), consult at least two of them. • After receiving advice, circle back to share outcomes; this honors their investment. • If counsel conflicts, weigh alignment with clear biblical commands first. • Pray for your elders regularly; informed intercession deepens mutual trust. Blessings That Flow from Heeding Elders • Protection from blind spots (Proverbs 27:6). • Confirmation of God’s leading (Acts 13:2-3). • Unity in the body as decisions are made openly (Philippians 2:2). • A living testimony that God’s design for authority is good (Psalm 92:12-15). Guardrails to Remember • Refuse counsel that contradicts the plain meaning of Scripture. • Beware of selecting only those who agree with you (“itching ears,” 2 Timothy 4:3). • Distinguish between preference and principle; elders supply the latter. Becoming Counselors for the Next Generation • Grow in biblical knowledge (2 Timothy 2:15). • Cultivate a blameless reputation (Titus 1:6-8). • Practice availability; Boaz’s elders could be found at the gate—be findable. • Model dependence on Christ so your words carry spiritual weight. Seeking counsel from elders is not a relic of ancient Israel but a timeless safeguard. As Boaz honored the elders, we, too, flourish when we humbly sit down, listen, and walk in the wisdom God provides through seasoned believers. |
    |