What Is The Role Of An Elder In The Church?
The Role of an Elder in the Church: A Biblical Study
The New Testament provides clear guidance on the office and responsibilities of elders in the local church. This study explores who elders are, their qualifications, responsibilities, and the importance of their role within the body of Christ.
Who Are Elders?
The term "elder" (Greek: presbuteros) is used interchangeably in the New Testament with "overseer" (episkopos) and "pastor" (poimen). These titles emphasize different aspects of the same office: spiritual maturity ("elder"), oversight ("overseer"), and shepherding ("pastor"). Elders are appointed leaders who have spiritual authority and responsibility within the local church.
And when they had appointed for them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they had believed. - Acts 14:23 ASV
Biblical Qualifications for Elders
Scripture places a high standard on those who would serve as elders, recognizing the influence they have on the spiritual health of the church. The qualifications are found most clearly in 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:5–9.
The saying is faithful, If a man seeketh the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach... - 1 Timothy 3:1-2 ASV
For the overseer must be blameless, as God's steward; not self-willed, not soon angry, no brawler, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but given to hospitality, as a lover of good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled; holding to the faithful word which is according to the teaching... - Titus 1:7-9 ASV
- Above reproach
- Faithful to spouse
- Self-controlled and sober-minded
- Hospitable
- Able to teach
- Not violent, not greedy
- Manages family well
These qualifications highlight the importance of character and spiritual maturity over mere ability or popularity.
Primary Responsibilities of Elders
Elders are called to shepherd God’s flock, exercising spiritual oversight, teaching, and protecting the church from error.
Take heed unto yourselves, and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit hath made you bishops, to feed the church of the Lord which he purchased with his own blood. - Acts 20:28 ASV
Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not of constraint, but willingly, according to the will of God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as lording it over the charge allotted to you, but making yourselves examples to the flock. - 1 Peter 5:2-3 ASV
- Shepherding – Nurturing, guiding, and caring for the church as a shepherd does for sheep (1 Peter 5:2).
- Teaching – Instructing believers in sound doctrine and refuting false teaching (Titus 1:9).
- Oversight – Providing spiritual leadership and direction for the congregation (Acts 20:28).
- Example – Living as models of Christlike character for others to follow (1 Peter 5:3).
- Prayer and ministry of the Word – Devoting themselves to prayer and teaching, as seen in the early church (Acts 6:4).
Plurality of Elders
The New Testament model is for each local church to be led by a plurality of elders, rather than a single leader. This provides accountability, shared wisdom, and a balance of gifts.
Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. - Acts 14:23 ASV
The Importance of the Elder’s Role
Elders play a crucial role in maintaining doctrinal purity, spiritual health, and unity within the church. The Bible also calls believers to respect and submit to their leadership, understanding that elders will give an account to God for their stewardship.
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit to them: for they watch in behalf of your souls, as they that shall give account; that they may do this with joy, and not with grief: for this were unprofitable for you. - Hebrews 13:17 ASV
Conclusion
The role of an elder is a weighty and honorable calling. Elders are to reflect Christ’s servant leadership, guide the church with wisdom and humility, and faithfully teach and defend the truth. As believers, we are called to pray for our elders and support their God-given responsibility.