Basic Biblical Principles 10

   One of the most important relationships, in a church body, is the relationship between the elders and the members. If this relationship is solid, then things move along in a much smoother fashion. This month I will talk about the roles and qualifications of elders, in the hope of strengthening what I feel is an already strong relationship.

   But first, let us review some terminology. The bible uses several terms for the office of elder. The words elder, shepherd, pastor, presbyter, bishop, and overseer are used interchangeably to represent the same position of leadership.

   The elders are to act as shepherds for the flock. See Acts 20:28. Shepherds love and care for their flock. They want to see that the flock is well fed, spiritually. Literal shepherds lead their flock into areas that are safe from predators and where there is ample forage and water. Elders should do much the same thing, in a spiritual sense, for the members of the church.

   Elders are to direct the affairs of the church. See 1 Timothy 5:17. This does not mean the elders dictate absolutely what goes on in the church (1 Peter 5:3). The elders need to know the needs of the church membership. They need to listen to the flock. Then they lead the flock based on the wants and needs of the flock, but always in accordance with God’s principles.

   Elders are to pray for the sick (James 5:14). In our elder’s meetings, the first item on the agenda is to list those who are ill, facing medical procedures, or struggling with something in their lives. Then we pray for each person according to his or her needs. We ask for your help in keeping us informed of any prayer needs you may have or that you may know about. (If you want it kept confidential, we will honor that request.)

   Elders are to teach the word of God (1 Timothy 3:2). This can be done in many ways: classroom teaching; one-on-one teaching; setting an example; etc.

   Elders must encourage others (Titus 1:9). I think that this is one of the most important roles for an elder and it is something that can be done on almost a daily basis. It is important that when someone does something well, that we show our appreciation. It is also important that when someone is discouraged for whatever reason, that we help them to overcome that discouragement.

   Titus 1:9 also says that an elder must be able to refute those who oppose sound doctrine. This is part of a shepherd’s job, to protect the flock from predators. Elders must also confront any “predator” who would draw the flock away from spiritual safety and security.

   Another role of elders is to resolve conflicts within the church. An example of this is found in Acts 15:1-2. God does not want us to take our conflicts to the courts, or other venues, where reproach can be brought on the church (1 Corinthians 6:1-7).

   Because of the benefits good leadership can bring to a church and the problems that poor leadership can cause, the bible sets very significant qualifications for a man to be an elder. We (the elders) need to be continually evaluating ourselves, to see that we continue to meet the requirements of the office. The congregation needs to make sure that men chosen for this role, meet all of the requirements that God has provided for us.

   The qualifications for elders are described in several places in the bible. 1 Peter 3:1-7 gives the following list of elder qualifications. An elder must be above reproach. He must not have anything in his life that would bring shame on the church. He must be the husband of one wife. An elder must therefore be a man. He must be temperate, keeping a steady, controlled emotional state. He must be self-controlled. A man, who cannot control his anger or his actions, can cause so many problems, especially if put in a leadership role. An elder must be respectable. An elder must be hospitable. This is more than just having visitors in one’s home. He must be open and friendly with new people, helping visitors to feel welcome and wanted. He must be able to teach. He must not be a drunkard. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, nor greedy. He must manage his family, including his children, well. If a man cannot manage his family well, how can he be expected to manage his church family? He may not be a recent convert. He has a good reputation in the community.

   Titus 1:6-9 adds several requirements. He must have believing children, who are not wild or disobedient. He must not be over-bearing. He must be willing to compromise in non-doctrinal matters. He will not insist on his way at all times. An elder will love things that are good.

   Finally, 1 Peter 5:2 says that a man must be not only willing but eager to serve. This is not a position that a man should be drafted or coerced, in any form, into taking. This does not mean that a man being asked to serve as an elder should not weigh the responsibilities of the office that he is considering. He must look carefully at the qualifications and examine himself as to whether this is a position that is right for him, at the time. He must have the support of his family. In the end, a man who is qualified will take on the responsibility, willingly, looking forward for the opportunity to serve God more fully.

Steve Truman