Basics: An elder is a man who (i) meets the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, (ii) is recognized by his church as an elder (pastor), and (iii) leads the church by teaching the Word (1 Tim. 3:2), praying for the sheep (James 5:14), and overseeing the affairs of the church (1 Peter 5:2).
Oversight: An elder is to care for the flock. He is to teach all the sheep, strengthen the weak, protect the vulnerable, rebuke the stubborn, and endure hardship with those who are difficult to deal with (2 Tim. 2:24-25; Acts 20:28; 1 Thess. 5:14). An elder oversees the members of his church as one who will give an account to God (Heb. 13:17).
Plurality: In the New Testament we see repeatedly that there is not one but several elders in a local church (Acts 14:23; 20:17; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 5:17; Jas. 5:14). Christ, the Faithful Shepherd, cares for His flock through a group of godly men who together teach, watch over, instruct, protect, and love God’s people. Therefore, each local church, following the example of its pastor, should seek out such men who are already serving as elders and appoint them to this office.
About Марк Девер
Doctor of Divinity (Cambridge University), senior pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., author of numerous books and articles, and honorary president of the 9Marks organization.
