William MacDonald emphasizes the distinction between the New Testament understanding of a bishop and the modern interpretation. In the early church, bishops were mature Christians serving the spiritual needs of their local congregations, rather than appointed dignitaries overseeing multiple churches. MacDonald highlights the qualifications and duties of bishops, stressing that they should be humble servants rather than figures of authority, and that their selection is ultimately guided by the Holy Spirit. He also points out that the church's recognition of elders should be based on their spiritual qualifications rather than worldly success. The sermon concludes with the importance of the church's attitude towards elders, advocating for respect and support for their leadership.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church, warning against the danger of merely organizing church activities without His presence. He highlights that while structure and organization are important, they are meaningless without the Spirit's power, as true transformation and growth come from Him alone. Tozer urges believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and control in all ministry efforts, rather than relying solely on human effort and eloquence. He concludes with a heartfelt prayer for the Spirit's presence in ministry, underscoring the necessity of divine involvement in the church's mission.

William MacDonald emphasizes the role of deacons in the church as servants who fulfill various ministries, highlighting their qualifications and the importance of integrity and faithfulness in their service. He explains that deacons must be grave, honest, and not greedy, and that their wives or deaconesses should also embody these qualities. MacDonald also discusses the rewards for deacons, which include a good standing among believers and boldness in faith, while stressing the need for proper financial stewardship within the church. He concludes by noting that the New Testament outlines only two roles in church leadership: bishops and deacons, rejecting the notion of a clergy class. The sermon underscores the simplicity and integrity required in church finances, advocating for self-supporting local congregations.

In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of the cross in the life of a church leader. He starts by discussing the Beatitudes in Matthew chapter 5, highlighting the need for recognition of spiritual destitution. The pastor then moves on to the disciples and how they were not effective in their ministry until they came to the cross. He expresses the burden and yearning of Christ for the disciples to fully surrender to the cross. The sermon concludes with a promise to delve deeper into the application and teaching of the cross in one's personal life.

Mike Attwood discusses the early church's history, focusing on the church in Ephesus and the emergence of the clergy-laity system, which he argues undermines the biblical principle of shared leadership among elders. He emphasizes the importance of true shepherding and warns against the dangers of elevating church leaders to a status that diminishes Christ's preeminence. Attwood also highlights the persecution faced by the church in Smyrna, illustrating how suffering can lead to spiritual richness and growth, despite the challenges posed by societal pressures and false teachings. He encourages believers to live sacrificially for Christ, drawing inspiration from the martyrs of the early church who exemplified unwavering faith in the face of persecution.

Charles Finney addresses the four classes of professors in the Church, emphasizing the reasons why many young converts fail to grow in grace. He identifies the first class as those with little conviction of sin, the second as those who have experienced conviction but lack true regeneration, the third as genuinely converted individuals who remain stagnant in their spiritual growth, and the fourth as those who have a deep understanding of Christ and are able to guide others. Finney warns that many Christians are unable to comfort or direct others due to their limited experience and understanding of spiritual matters. He calls for a deeper engagement with the truths of the gospel to foster growth and sanctification within the Church.

A.W. Tozer addresses the alarming state of the evangelical church, asserting that many Christians are spiritually asleep despite being active in church affairs. He emphasizes that these 'sleeping' Christians, while intellectually engaged, fail to exhibit moral and spiritual vitality, leading to a detrimental influence on church governance and the spiritual growth of new believers. Tozer warns that their control over church matters and the standards they set for new Christians perpetuates a cycle of spiritual lethargy, ultimately grieving God. He calls for a wake-up call to revive the church and restore genuine spiritual fervor.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit's work in the current dispensation, highlighting that the Spirit is not only an indwelling presence but also actively directs and sustains the church. He explains that the Book of Acts serves as a foundational text, illustrating the principles of the Spirit's sovereignty and His role in guiding the church's movements, constitution, and revelation. Sparks encourages believers to recognize the objective work of the Spirit, which transcends personal attainment and focuses on God's eternal purposes through Christ. He warns against living a double life, as it contradicts the Spirit's truth and can lead to spiritual death. Ultimately, he calls for a yieldedness to the Spirit's sovereignty, reminding that our responsibility is to respond to His leading while embracing the cross.

Phil Beach Jr. teaches on the qualifications for eldership as outlined in Scripture, emphasizing the high standards set for leaders in the church. He explains that eldership is not confined to local assemblies but extends to overseeing the body of Christ universally. The sermon delves into specific qualifications from 1 Timothy, Titus, and 1 Peter, highlighting the importance of character, self-control, and the ability to teach and guide others. Beach stresses the need for elders to be examples of Christ-like behavior, demonstrating love and hospitality to all, and maintaining a good reputation both within and outside the church. Ultimately, he calls for a return to biblically sound leadership to combat the compromises of the current age.

John Gill emphasizes the vital role of church officers, particularly pastors, in the organized body of the church. He explains that pastors are shepherds under Christ, responsible for feeding and guiding the flock with knowledge and understanding, and outlines the qualifications necessary for this office. Gill also discusses the distinction between extraordinary and ordinary officers, noting that while apostles and prophets were foundational, the roles of pastors and deacons are essential for the church's ongoing ministry. He stresses the importance of a pastor's character, ability to teach, and the necessity of a proper call to the ministry. Ultimately, Gill calls for a return to scriptural principles in the appointment and function of church leaders.

John Gill emphasizes the role of church leaders as examples rather than tyrants, urging them not to dominate over God's heritage but to lead with humility and integrity. He explains that while elders are to be respected and obeyed in their rightful duties, they must not impose their authority in a domineering manner or dictate the faith of the congregation. Instead, they should model the teachings of Christ through their actions and character, serving as patterns of good works and embodying the virtues of charity, faith, and purity. The sermon highlights the importance of pastoral leadership that reflects Christ's love and guidance.

John Gill emphasizes the apostle Peter's exhortation to church elders, urging them to fulfill their pastoral duties with humility and dedication, as he identifies himself as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ's sufferings. He encourages them to lead by example, feeding the flock willingly and without greed, while reminding them of the eternal reward awaiting faithful shepherds. Additionally, he calls on church members to submit to their leaders and to each other, highlighting the importance of humility and vigilance against spiritual adversaries. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the believers' strength and stability in their faith, reinforcing the communal responsibilities of both leaders and members in the body of Christ.

Chuck Smith discusses the various forms of church government as presented in the New Testament, emphasizing the roles of bishops (episkopos) and elders (presbyteros) while critiquing congregational rule. He highlights the importance of having godly leaders who are in touch with God, drawing parallels between church leadership and the theocratic model established in Israel under Moses. Smith warns against the dangers of a pastor becoming a hireling under a board or congregational rule, advocating instead for a structure where the pastor is led by Christ and supported by a board of elders. He stresses the need for true repentance and reliance on God for church leaders, as well as the importance of prayerful decision-making within the church. Ultimately, he presents a vision of church governance that aligns with biblical principles and fosters spiritual growth.

John Gill discusses the office of deacons within the church, emphasizing its ecclesiastical nature and the original establishment as a response to the needs of the growing church. He outlines the qualifications required for deacons, their specific duties, and the importance of their role in serving the church and its members, particularly the poor. Gill highlights that deacons are not to preach or rule but to assist in practical matters, ensuring the church's needs are met while allowing pastors to focus on spiritual ministry. He also encourages the church to support and pray for deacons, recognizing their vital contribution to the community.

Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical role of doorkeepers in the church, highlighting their responsibility to protect the congregation from false teachings and spiritual corruption. He explains that doorkeepers, often elders, must remain vigilant and prioritize God's glory over personal reputation, as neglecting this duty can lead to the church being overrun by 'savage wolves.' Poonen warns against the dangers of complacency and the need for leaders to be discerning, drawing parallels to biblical figures like Eli and Paul. He calls for a return to the seriousness of this role, urging elders to confront sin and maintain the purity of the church. Ultimately, he prays for the rise of faithful doorkeepers who will uphold the integrity of God's house.