Why Elders?
To keep the church in order, God has given us two offices. These are elders and deacons. There are a number of ways that churches have tried to implement this system. We believe that a plurality of elders, supported by a team of deacons, is the most faithful way to lead a church.
Acts 14:23 says, “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”
There are many verses, but this shows that early churches were led by multiple elders. It is our conviction that this helps us in a few important ways. First, it protects us from being led by a single charismatic man who could, by mistake or intent, take us off the path God has for us. Second, it allows several voices in leadership conversations. Third, it spreads the work of church leadership into many hands.
What Do Elders Do?
In Acts 6, we read about how the first deacons were chosen. In verse 4, the elders say, “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word.” We take from this that the two main jobs of an elder will be to faithfully teach the word of God and pray. Doing this faithfully protects the character and doctrine of our church.
Who are the Elders?
Our elders are nominated by our elder board, but they are elected by our congregation. Our elders carefully examine men whom they believe meet the qualifications for an elder (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9). After a thorough examination, qualified men who desire to serve are voted on by our congregation.
Practically, What Does This Mean?
It means our pastor is an elder. He is one of 5 men who work together to lead our church family as best they can. This provides oversight and accountability to help them carry the burden well.