Filter Ep. 13: What Are Church Elders? Pt. 1

What are church elders? If you grew up going to a church where elders played an important role, then you might have some idea of what it is all about. For many people, this church office in the New Testament is new and confusing. In this episode, I begin a short series on church elders. We'll learn a simple definition, see what the Bible says about elders, and take a look at the character qualifications for elders.

Show Highlights

  • The elder is a shepherding role in the church. Shepherds are responsible for teaching, praying, caring, protecting, and leading the flock.

  • “According to the New Testament concept of eldership, elders lead the church, teach and preach the Word, protect the church from false teachers, exhort and admonish the saints in sound doctrine, visit the sick and pray, and judge doctrinal issues. In biblical terminology, elders shepherd, oversee, lead, and care for the local church.” Alexander Strauch

  • New Testament always refers to a plurality of elders leading a local congregation (Acts 14:23, 16:4, 20:17; 1 Tim. 4:14; Titus 1:5; Jam. 5:14; 1 Pet. 5:1-4).

  • We find the biblical qualifications for an elder in 1 Timothy 2 and 3 and Titus 1.

  • With the exception of “able to teach” and “not a new convert,” this list describes the character which should characterize all believers.

  • We should not just assume that because a man is a proven leader in the world that he should be an elder.

  • “Churches should search for men of character, reputation, ability to handle the Word, and fruitfulness, These qualities should mark the leaders of our church. They live not for themselves, but others.” Mark Dever

Resources

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