Even in the days of the apostles there were rulers who sought to oppress the church. The beloved apostle John makes mention of such an one in the person of “Diotrephes, who loveth to have the pre-eminence among them.... Neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out the church.” 3 John 9, 10. COOD 40.4
To guard against such ruling in the church, the apostle Peter wrote to the ruling elders in his time: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:2, 3. COOD 41.1
Paul spoke of that class of faithful rulers on this wise: “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his reward. Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” 1 Timothy 5:17-19. COOD 41.2
In this same epistle the apostle, speaking of the qualifications of a bishop (the same office as a ruling elder at that time), says, “One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God)?” 1 Timothy 3:4, 5. COOD 41.3