Sunday 05:08:11

The Biblical qualifications of an elder describe one who is a mature Christian of good repute, with gifts for teaching, management and pastoral ministry. 1 Timothy 3:1-7 Titus 1:5-9 Biblical Qualifications for Elders Above reproach Elders must be blameless, presenting no patterns of Scriptural disobedience or grounds of accusation. Husband of one wife Elders, if married, must be devoted spouses. (A previous marriage does not necessarily disqualify.) Temperate Elders must be self-controlled, enslaved in nothing, free from excesses. Prudent Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balanced in judgment, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking. Respectable Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and good behavior. Hospitable Elders must be unselfish with their personal resources. They must be willing to share blessings with others. Able to teach Elders must be able to communicate the truth of God and exhort sound doctrine in a non-argumentative way. (See 2 Tim 4:2; 2:24) Not addicted to wine Elders must be free from addictions and must be willing to limit their liberty for the sake of others. Not pugnacious Elders must be gentle and characterized by forbearance and tenderness, not having a quick temper. Uncontentious Elders must not be given to quarrelling or selfish argumentation. Free from the love of money Elders must not be stingy, greedy or out for sordid gain. They should not be preoccupied with amassing material things, but rather should be a model of giving. Manage own household Elders must have a well-ordered household, a healthy family life, and well-behaved children (pertains to those children still under the authority of the parents). Not a new convert Elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and the depth of their spirituality. Good reputation with outsiders Elders must be well respected by unbelievers and must be free from hypocrisy. Not self-willed Elders must not be stubborn, insensitive, or prone to force their opinions on others. They must be more interested in service than self-pleasure. Not quick-tempered Elders must be able to exercise self-control and patience in difficult situations. Love what is good Elders must desire the will of God in every situation. Just Elders must be free and impartial. Their judgments must be based on Scriptural principles. Devout Elders must be reverent, continually desiring to be separated from sin. They must be devoted to prayer, the study of Scripture, and the guarding of their own spiritual walk. (See Acts 20:28) Holding fast the faithful word Elders must be tall in the faith, obedient to the word of God, continually seeking to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. Biblical Roles of Elders Elders are to • Shepherd the flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3) • Lead through example (1 Peter 5:3) • Teach and exhort (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9) • Refute those who contradict the truth (Acts 20:29-31; Titus 1:9) • Manage the Church of God (1 Timothy 3:5; 1 Timothy 5:7) • Pray for the sick (James 5:14)