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Study 07 of 18

Qualifications of the Elder

What must be true of the person before the office is given

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

The handbook works through Paul's list — blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behaviour, hospitable, able to teach, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous (1 Tim. 3:2-3) — and notes that 'husband of one wife' addresses polygamy rather than requiring marriage, since Paul himself was unmarried. It then adds its own headings: commitment to Christ, daily and time commitment, being an example to members, supporting church doctrine without airing private doubts publicly, maintaining strong family relationships, moral purity, overcoming racial prejudice, being an exemplary giver (those who are not faithful in tithe should not be elected), and admitting mistakes. As a leader of members the elder is to love the members, work in unity, consult with members, follow his leader, and enable members to discover and use their spiritual gifts.

Key points

  • Paul's qualifications are overwhelmingly about character, not ability.
  • 'Husband of one wife' addresses polygamy; Paul himself was unmarried.
  • Private devotional life precedes public influence.
  • An elder supports church doctrine publicly and raises questions through proper channels.
  • Faithfulness in tithe and offerings is expected before election.
  • The elder enables members to find and use their spiritual gifts.

Key texts

  • 1 Timothy 3:2-4
  • Titus 1:6-9
  • 1 Corinthians 11:1
  • Titus 2:1
  • 1 Timothy 4:12
  • Galatians 3:28
  • Matthew 9:36
  • Mark 1:35
  1. Scripture

    1. Read 1 Timothy 3:2-3. Which single qualification concerns ability, and what does that weighting teach?

  2. Doctrinal Clarity

    2. How does the handbook interpret 'the husband of one wife'?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why must commitment to Christ come before leadership skill?

  4. Scripture

    4. Read Mark 1:35. What pattern of daily commitment did Jesus set for leaders?

  5. Doctrinal Clarity

    5. How should an elder handle personal doubts about a church doctrine?

  6. Scripture

    6. Why does Paul tie leadership in the church to the management of one's own home?

  7. Comprehension

    7. What does the handbook say about electing someone who is not a faithful tither?

  8. Contrast

    8. Contrast a leader who admits mistakes with one who defends them.

  9. Doctrinal Clarity

    9. Read Galatians 3:28. How does this bear on an elder's attitude to race and culture?

  10. Application

    10. Which qualification on the handbook's list is hardest for you, and what single step will you take this month?