The apostles seemed to recognize the fact that when that deference and respect due to those who were really acting as “the Lord’s anointed”-filling responsible places in the church-should be shown, there would be a liability, on the part of such (if self in them was not fully surrendered to God), of becoming lifted up with pride, as though they, of themselves, were superior to their brethren. To guard against this they received cautions, of which the following are samples: “In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that can not be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” Titus 2:7, 8. “Be thou an example to the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” 1 Timothy 4:12, 16. COOD 73.1
A late Testimony says: “He who is chosen to fill the office of elder is not, because of this, to become self-exalted. Let him remember that the office does not make the man, but that before angels and before man he is to honor his office.”-Review, April 26, 1906. COOD 73.2