The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Peter 5:1-7, “Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed,

2 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;

3 nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.

4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time,

7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.”

Becoming a Christian is what it’s all about! Yet, it’s more than simply laying hold on eternal life. Christianity encompasses responsibilities much like any enterprise one would undertake, yet with dire consequences, if neglected. Oversight is the exercise of caring for those who are young in the faith. Oversight does not indicate harsh behavior; rather, it is being an example of Christ and setting Him before those in our charge.

In the truest of senses, we are preparing others to follow His example! As He was submissive to His Heavenly Father, so we are to be submissive to Him. Those who observe our submission to Him will likewise be enticed to submit to Him and His will for their lives. Grace will replace pride with humility, and anxiety will disappear altogether. What a joy to be a Christian and lead others to faith and trust in Him! This treasure can be yours! Christ Himself is the Treasure! He will use you, and you will treasure having been used for His glory!

Now, make a list of the people you would like to receive this Treasure! Think everything through very carefully. Pray about your approach. Pray for the time. Pray for the opportunity to speak with each of them. Then, leave everything to the Holy Spirit. He will thoroughly arrange everything, including what you should say and when you should say it. God bless you!

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

We will never know that Christ is all we need,

Until He becomes all that we have. – Corrie ten Boom