Elders, Deacons, Preachers, Saints
Appointing Elders
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is a review of select passages on how elders are selected. Of special note in this lesson is not just the elder, but the impact on his family, especially his wife.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand the various biblical leadership roles and their relationship to one another.
- 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.
Although there is no clear process in scriptures, we do see where an independent individual (Paul, Timothy, etc.) reviewed the recommendations of men selected for this office by members of their respective congregations, regions, city, etc.
Paul provides guidelines as to the qualifications of elders but leaves the actual process up to the individuals. Those making the decisions for elder selection as well as those recommending someone must give prayerful and careful thought to this critical task. Close adherence to scripture is vital.
Answers will vary. Paul lists qualifications of elders in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1. These characteristics are a guide to what makes someone qualified. They point to a person of good character whose family is also supportive and faithful.
This varies with each congregation with reference to more than one (elders).
There is no specified number, rather Paul allows this decision to be made by each congregation. Each congregation must determine an appropriate number based on what works best to shepherd the flock, however, we note that each time these leaders are mentioned they are referred to as a plurality (more than one – I Peter 5:1; Hebrews 13:17) which suggests that churches in apostolic times had at least two or more elders per congregation.
Answers will vary. Although she holds no position of authority or specific responsibility, there are many things the elder's wife helps him with as he seeks to effectively serve the congregation. No elder can fulfil his role as head of the household without the direct support of his wife. The elder demonstrates God's will for family beginning with a strong relationship with his wife. She brings to the role of the elder a much-needed support system for him as he faces a wide variety of issues. She is a confidant counselor offering him insights he might not otherwise be aware of. Sometimes people will speak with the wife on issues that she can bring to the elder's attention. Other elements of her role include support for her husband with a servant heart, instructs younger women concerning good conduct, good home management and service to the church and community.
Paul is speaking generally about older women but certainly, the spiritually mature elder's wife would fit this characteristic and responsibility. By her special place in a congregation she has a wonderful opportunity to be a role model and mentor for younger women.
God provides all of us a variety of abilities and opportunities to serve. Some serve in ways specified in scripture such as our shepherds, evangelists and teachers. Others serve in critical support roles that may be overlooked as to their importance. Regardless, all of us must seek to live faithful lives looking for opportunities to serve our Lord, each other and to present Jesus to our communities.
God deemed that the leadership of congregations fall upon faithful men who interact daily with each of us. We must hold them in high regard as we help them serve.
In doing so, we also are faithful to God's will.