Eldership
Eldership in the Bible refers to a leadership role within the church and community, characterized by wisdom, maturity, and spiritual oversight. The term "elder" (Hebrew: זָקֵן, *zaqen*; Greek: πρεσβύτερος, *presbuteros*) signifies not only age but also the authority and responsibility to guide others in spiritual matters. Elders are often seen as leaders who provide counsel, make decisions on behalf of the community, and ensure the proper teaching of doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5). In the New Testament, the role of elders is further defined in the context of church governance, where they are tasked with shepherding the congregation (Acts 20:28) and maintaining doctrinal purity (Titus 1:9). The qualifications for elders are outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, emphasizing moral integrity, ability to teach, and a good reputation. Eldership can thus be understood as a divinely ordained structure for spiritual leadership, reflecting God's design for order and guidance within the body of Christ.
Eldership4
Elders Then Must Be
By Phil Beach Jr.3231:311PE 5:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the profound responsibility and privilege of being entrusted with the care of God's flock as elders. He encourages elders to remain soft, tender, and pliable in the hands of the Lord, reminding them that their ministry extends beyond the local church to the entire body of Christ. Beach highlights the importance of being examples to the flock, serving selflessly, and being vigilant against false teachings. He urges elders to find their sufficiency in Christ and to diligently study the Word of God, as they will be held accountable for their leadership. Ultimately, he calls for a humble and compassionate approach to shepherding, reflecting the love of Christ for His people.
Qualifications for Eldership
By Phil Beach Jr.311:04:311TI 3:1Phil Beach Jr. teaches on the qualifications for eldership as outlined in Scripture, emphasizing the high standards set for leaders in the church. He explains that eldership is not confined to local assemblies but extends to overseeing the body of Christ universally. The sermon delves into specific qualifications from 1 Timothy, Titus, and 1 Peter, highlighting the importance of character, self-control, and the ability to teach and guide others. Beach stresses the need for elders to be examples of Christ-like behavior, demonstrating love and hospitality to all, and maintaining a good reputation both within and outside the church. Ultimately, he calls for a return to biblically sound leadership to combat the compromises of the current age.
(The New Covenant Servant) 3. the Lord Rebukes the Elders
By Zac Poonen0REV 2:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the Lord's rebuke of the elders in the churches of Revelation, highlighting their failures in devotion, tolerance of worldly teachings, and hypocrisy. He points out that the elder in Ephesus lost fervent devotion to the Lord, while the elder in Pergamum allowed lax teachings that led to worldliness. The elder in Sardis was criticized for living on reputation rather than spiritual reality, and the elder in Laodicea was blind to his own wretchedness. Poonen stresses the importance of personal relationship with God over mere service, and the need for elders to lead by example, free from the love of money and the desire for human approval.
The Elders Appointed by the Apostles
By Watchman Nee0MAT 28:19ACT 14:23ACT 20:281CO 5:131CO 12:251TI 5:17TIT 1:51PE 5:22JN 1:1Watchman Nee discusses the biblical foundation and significance of appointing elders in the church, emphasizing that elders are chosen from among the local believers based on their spiritual maturity rather than being sent from outside. He highlights that the apostles established elders in every church to ensure local governance and care, allowing the church to function independently while still under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Nee stresses the importance of mutual responsibility among church members and the need for elders to lead by example rather than authority, ensuring that the church operates as a unified body. He also clarifies the distinction between the roles of apostles and elders, noting that while apostles are responsible for founding churches, elders oversee local church affairs. Ultimately, the appointment of elders is a spiritual matter, requiring divine guidance and a commitment to the local community.