I. Definitions

Two different words used in the Greek NT. They are:

'presbuteros' - in English translated elder or presbyter

'episkopos' - in English translated bishop or overseer

Elder -- stresses the fact that he is older in the Lord (not a novice)

Overseer -- stresses his work and authority

In the NT these words refer to the same person: See Acts 20:17 & 28; Titus 1:5 & 7

Notes: Bishop as often used today of a man over several churches has no support in Scripture. Nothing in Scripture on the "clergy. " "Pastor" in the NT is not a position in the local church but one of many different spiritual gifts -- Eph. 4:1 1. Gifts are given to every member in the body. Elder is a local charge. A man who is an elder in one place may not be an elder in another place.

II. Number of Elders

The number is always plural in Scripture. There are no exceptions. See Acts 11:30; 14:23; 20:17; I Tim. 5:17; Titus 1:5; Jas. 5:14; Phil. 1:1, etc.

III. Appointment of Elders

1. First is a work of God in the person of His choice. Acts 20:28 shows that elders are "made " by God the Holy Spirit.
2. Second, there is a desire in the heart (I Tim. 3:1) which will manifest itself in character and effort; I Tim. 3: 2- 7.
3. Third, there should be a recognition by others in response to all of the above. The saints are charged to know (or recognize) those whom God has chosen as they carry on His work; I Thes. 5:12. The Lord's servants in NT times appointed (or pointed out) the elders they discerned in each fellowship: Titus 1:5; Acts 14:23. Paul never appointed elders on his first visit to any church. Rather, he allowed time for those whom God had chosen to manifest themselves by their work. Then he singled them out for recognition of the church. (cf. Num. 11:16) Note that the flock NEVER choose their own shepherds by vote. This is the prerogative of the owner of the flock.

In an already established work, the elders should be sensitive to others God may wish to add to the number. Beside the call of God, desire of heart and suitable qualifications, there should be soundness of doctrine (Titus 1:9) and an unanimous agreement among the present elders.

IV. Qualifications of Elders: I Tim. 3:1-8 Titus 1:6-9

• Blameless reputation -- does not say sinless
• One wife -- a "one-woman man;" polygamy forbidden
• Vigilant -- lit. temperate; not given to excess
• Sober -- Christianity not a frivolous pastime; serious business
• Good behavior -- lit. orderly
• Hospitality -- home open to others in order to further the work of the Lord
• Apt to teach -- not necessarily a teacher; has an inner desire to make the truth of God known
• Not addicted to wine -- self-control; part of the fruit of the Spirit
• Not a striker -- not violent
• Not greedy of filthy lucre -- not a money lover. Many opportunities to take advantage of situations as an elder
• Patient
• Not a brawler -- some will argue at a moment's notice
• Not covetous -- covetousness is to want something God never intended us to have
• Rule his own house well -- lessons learned at home applied in the assembly
• Not a novice -- speaks of spiritual maturity to a degree greater than others in a given local fellowship
• Good report in the world -- reputation and testimony
• Not self-willed -- committed to discerning and following the will of God
• Not soon angry -- employs spiritual means to settle disagreements
• A lover of good men -- lit. "a lover of good"
• Just -- upright in dealings
• Holy -- Christ-like character
• Defender of the faith -- well grounded in doctrine

NOTE:The qualifications given in these two passages stress personal character qualities rather than exceptional gift and ability as necessary in this work.

V. Duties of Elders

1. To feed the flock of God, Acts 20:28. This may include the ministry of the Word, counseling, comfort, discipling, etc.
2. To exercise control and discipline, I Thes. 5:14; Heb. 13:17, meaning of "overseer. " This can include exhortation, warning, etc.
3. To lead; "Their role is to lead, that is, to think ahead and plan for the future growth of the local assembly. This is accomplished by setting short-term and long-term goals. " Bert Kramer. Acts 6 reminds us of the top priority to be given by spiritual leaders to "prayer and to the ministry of the Word." A real test question for leaders in the assembly is: "Is guidance and vision coming from the Head or from tradition?"
4. To guard the flock, Acts 20:29-30; Titus 1:11
5. To act as stewards; the assembly is filled with lives and each life is spiritually gifted. The elders need wisdom to recognize and encourage this treasure for the glory of God and the good of the work.

NOTE: A believer lives in two spheres; the spiritual and the physical. Needs belonging to both of these spheres will come up constantly in the local church. God has provided men to care for the needs in both of these areas: Elders and Deacons.

VI. Special Privileges

• Should be treated with honor and respect. I Tim. 5:17- 18
• Should not be rebuked. I Tim. 5:1
• Should be highly esteemed for the work they must do. I Thes. 5:1 3
• Should be remembered (in prayer). Heb. 13:7-8
• Should not be accused without adequate witnesses. I Tim. 5:19

VII. Reward

A special reward is promised to the elders who are faithful in their work, see I Peter 5:4 -- the crown of glory. This is given by the Chief Shepherd Himself when He returns.