One very essential feature in proper family government or ruling is presented in the case of Abraham, of whom the Lord said: “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” Genesis 18:19. In the case of Eli, who failed in his government, the Lord said: “I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not.” 1 Samuel 3:13. COOD 41.4
The course to be pursued by the one chosen to lead or govern a church is found in these words: “The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves, if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:24, 25. COOD 42.1
A church ruler with grace to pursue such a course will not, Pharisaically, “bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders” (Matthew 23:4), saying “do this,“ and “go there;” but rather, being himself an example of what should be done, will lead the flock with the persuasive “come on.” For such a course he has the example of Christ: “when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:4, 27. COOD 42.2
The proper ruling of the Lord’s people is stated by the Spirit, through David, in these words: “He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun ariseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.” 2 Samuel 23:3, 4. That portion of David’s reign thus characterized, led him to say: “Thou has also given me the shield of thy salvation.... And thy gentleness hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35. COOD 42.3