Elders, Deacons, Preachers, Saints
Elders: Character Profile
Teaching Strategy
The purpose of this lesson is to begin to narrow our focus on specific leadership roles in the Church as described in the Bible. Of special note is the character profile of elders who serve as shepherds in local congregations.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand the various biblical leadership roles in the church and how they work together.
- Feel: Recognize the necessity for effective leadership in the Church.
- Do: Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective leader in the Church.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
Responses will vary. Look for comments that communicate that one qualified as a spiritual leader must first be a faithful follower of God, knowledgeable of His word and dedicated to God's will.
Love the Church (Ephesians 5:25) - Puts the church first, even before his own life.
Knows how to worship God in every context of life (Romans 12:1-2) – True worship is not limited to rituals in our assemblies. It is the sacrifice of every facet of life in devotion to God.
Works well with others (I Corinthians 3:5-9) – Must love his fellow man.
This means guiding others to God, encouraging faithfulness and expressing joy.
Knows how to make decisions (Acts 15:4-6) – Keeps current on issues and spiritual threats to self, members and the congregation as a whole. A decisive leader acts according to God's word in resolving issues.
Dependable – A shepherd cares for the flock in all situations. He is consistent in how he reacts and is stable in relationships.
Can share his feelings (Acts 20:36-38) – Sharing feelings means to be able to empathize. A great gift of an effective shepherd is that he truly knows how someone feels and is able to respond appropriately. This attitude goes beyond sympathy to show true understanding of what one is facing. The writer of Hebrews expresses a perfect example of this in Hebrews 4:14-16. In this passage he explains how Jesus knows our needs and responds to meet those needs. So too does the effective shepherd.
This author recognizes that a comparison is not the intent of this passage, however, the similarity between the role and function of a High Priest and our Shepherds/Elders today is remarkable.
- Chosen from among men.
- Appointed to act on behalf of the people in relation to God (presents us to God).
- Offers on sacrifices on behalf of the people for sins (prays for us, etc.)
- Deals gently with the people in their ignorance and waywardness (underscores the importance of an elder as a teacher and guide).
- Knows how we feel and seeks to understand the people better so as to serve and guide them appropriately (shepherds know their sheep).
- Does not serve for personal honor, but to bring honor to God.
The Church belongs to Jesus. He purchased with His blood and leads it. His will is that men be appointed as leaders, teachers and servants. These men are selected for their Christlike character, especially dedication to Christ and His Church. Our role is to support these men in their service, and if appropriate, grow ourselves in the knowledge and ability to lead. All of us, whether men or women, must take on the characteristics that enable us to maximize our service to the Lord no matter the role we find ourselves in.