Murmurers and Complainers
by Michael R. Baggett
The word "murmur" is not often used in our vocabulary. The King James Version uses this word to describe complainers who mutter, grumble, or express displeasure privately or publicly.
Murmurers or complainers may complain against God (see Vine’s, Murmurer, Jude 15-16). Moses experienced murmuring throughout the travels of the Israelites in the wilderness. What do they complain about? They complain that Moses’ efforts to get Pharaoh to let the people go caused the Egyptians to put more work on them (Exodus 5). They complain that Moses brought them out of Egypt to be killed by the Egyptians (Exodus 14:9-12). They complain about the bitter water (Exodus 15:22-27). They complain about hunger (Exodus 16:1-7, 11-12). They complain about thirst (Exodus 17:1-7). Miriam and Aaron complain about Moses’ leadership (Numbers 12:1-15). The Israelites complain about how difficult the way to the promised land is (Numbers 14:1-9). Eventually, the people desire to kill Moses and select a new leader to take them back to Egypt! (Numbers 14:10-38). What did God think? God considers the grumblings of the Israelites to be complaints against Him (Numbers 14:29).
What does God think when we complain against leaders in the church today? Since God established that a local church has elders to oversee the work, are we not guilty of complaining against God when we mumble and grumble against the eldership?
One’s attitude toward the elders of the local church is paramount to one’s spiritual welfare. The Bible refers to these leaders as elders, pastors, bishops, shepherds, or overseers. These men must meet specific qualifications to serve in a local church as elders (see Acts 20:17, 28; Ephesians 4:11; I Timothy 3:1-7; 5:17-22; Titus 1:5-9; I Peter 5:1-4). Each congregation is to have their own bishops or elders, which should not be confused with the office of deacons (Acts 14:23; Philippians 1:1). Each congregation is autonomous, meaning the scope of each eldership’s rule is limited only to the local church in which they have been appointed (I Peter 5:2).
It may be a very popular concept today, but a one-man eldership or one-man pastor system is without Bible authority. Agree or do not agree, Timothy and Titus were never “pastors” over the congregations they served. The fact is, Timothy and Titus were preachers who were instructed to appoint elders and set in order the things lacking in the local church (I Timothy 3:1-7, 15; Titus 1:5-9). I hope this is not a source of “religious shock” to some of the readers, but in any case, look at the scriptures and believe what they teach (Acts 17:11). I am convinced that the popular headings in some Bibles (put there by men) stating the letters written to Timothy and Titus are “pastoral epistles” have added to today’s confusion. There must be two or more pastors to oversee a congregation. The preacher is not “the pastor.”
Having shared some information on the office of elders, please understand that elders are to be recognized for their work’s sake (I Thessalonians 5:12). Further, each member in a congregation must submit to that eldership:
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you” (Hebrews 13:17 NKJV).
These elders watch for your souls! Let them do so with joy and not with grief.
How should we handle a disagreement with some of the decisions of the elders of the local church? First, do not express your displeasure like the Israelites did with Moses and Aaron.
In I Corinthians 10:1-11, we are told not to behave like the Israelites did in the wilderness. Notice verse 10: “Nor complain as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer.” Complaining led to serious consequences!
Do not murmur at church gatherings about the elder’s decision to hire another preacher. Never complain to a member of another congregation about disagreements in the local church! The affairs of one congregation are none of the business of another congregation across town. Never share your disappointments with how the elders handle the addition of new classrooms with friends, family, or workmates outside of Christ! Revealing such discord about the local church will not convert one soul to Christ! Remember, we are to walk in wisdom around the lost (Colossians 4:5). Is it a wise thing to gossip about division in the local church? Judge for yourself!
The first principle that guides a disagreement between a brother or sister also applies to the eldership. The principle I am talking about is Matthew 18:15. Go and talk to them alone. Most elderships invite the members to meet with them at appointed times to discuss any concerns they may have. You cannot be fairer than offering members an opportunity to give feedback. Go and discuss your grievances with these men. Elders are men like anyone else in that they cannot read your mind. Let them know in a submissive and kind manner how a matter might be handled differently. For example, if you do not like the meeting time of 7:00 P.M. each night for a gospel meeting, then talk to them. However, if the elders explain that 7:00 P.M. works best for the larger part of the congregation, you must submit to their decision and let it end there.
Murmuring, complaining, grumbling, or gossiping about leaders never benefited the Israelites. How could it benefit us? Let elders rule without picking apart their decisions. Remember, their service is for your benefit (Hebrews 13:17). May we rid ourselves of useless complaining, grumbling, murmuring, backbiting, and gossip, which only create more problems for the local church. Discuss your grievances with the elders and work together toward solutions, maintaining unity and furthering the cause of Christ.
