|
Elder qualifications are summarized in 1 Tim. 3:2-7 and Titus 1:6-9
Above reproach - Elders must lead by example and demonstrate a lifestyle free of patterns of sin.
Husband of one wife – Elders, if married, must be devoted spouses.
Temperate – Elders must be self-controlled, enslaved to nothing, free from excesses.
Prudent – Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balanced in judgment, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking.
Respectable – Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and honorable behavior.
Hospitable – Elders must be unselfish with their personal resources. They must be willing to share blessings with others.
Able to teach – Elders must be able to communicate truth and sound doctrine in a nonargumentative way.
Not addicted to wine – Elders must be free from addictions and willing to limit their liberty for the sake of others.
Not pugnacious or quick tempered – Elders must be gentle, patient and able to exercise self-control in difficult situations.
Uncontentious – Elders must be peacemakers and work for unity in the body.
Free from the love of money – Elders must be models of generosity. God is first in their giving and this is demonstrated in their commitment to tithe. (Biblical standard is 10% to their home church).
Manage own household – Elders must have a well-ordered household and a healthy family life.
Not a new convert – elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians for long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and depth of their spirituality and a member in the church in which they serve.
Good reputation with outsiders – Elders must be well-respected by unbelievers and free from hypocrisy.
Not self-willed – Elders must be humble and not stubborn, not prone to force opinions on others or abuse authority. They must be servants.
Loving what is good – Elders must desire the will of God in every decision.
Just – Elders must desire to be fair and impartial. Their judgments must be based on scriptural principle.
Devout – Elders must be devoted Christ followers seeking to be conformed to His image. They must be committed to prayer, worship, the study of Scripture, and the guarding of their own walk.
Holding fast the faithful Word – Elders must be stable in the faith, obedient to the Word of God, continually seeking to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.
|
