 |
|
| Volume 26 Number 3 March 2024 |
Page 10 |
|
|
| Volume 26 Number 3 March 2024 |
Page 10 |
Some Responsibilities
and
Qualification of Elders
Wayne Barrier
The first century church was directed to organize itself with elders serving as shepherds of the flock, overseers and teachers. Every congregation should seek to be organized with this biblical leadership structure. Qualifications of elders are provided in 1 Timothy 3:1-2 and Titus 1:5-9.
From Titus, these qualifications include (1) blameless, (2) the husband of one wife, (3) having faithful children not accused of dissipation [debauchery ESV] or insubordination, (4) not self-willed, (5) not given to wine, (6) not greedy for money, (7) hospitable, (8) lovers of what is good, (9) sober-minded, (10) just, (11) holy, (12) self-controlled, holding fast to the faithful Word as he has been taught that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort, and convict those who contradict.
From 1 Timothy, additional qualifications include (1) temperate, (2) of good behavior, (3) able to teach, (4) not violent, (5) gentle, (6) not quarrelsome, (7) not covetous, (8) one who rules his own house well, (9) not a novice, (10) have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Paul instructed the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:28-30 as follows: “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves” (NKJV).
The qualifications provided in 1 Timothy and Titus imply responsibilities. Paul was more direct in his instructions to the Ephesian elders. In summary, elders are to lead, feed and protect the church. They have proven their ability if they meet the qualifications. If the church follows their instructions, it will continue to be sound, service oriented and will advance the Truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). God’s plan, as always, is easy to understand and must be followed for His approval, forgiveness and acceptance.
