What are elders?

Richview is currently in the process of selecting Elders. In October, we will be holding a business meeting to elect our first Board of Elders.

Two Offices: Elder and Deacon

In the New Testament, there are two basic types of church offices (Philippians 1:1). The first goes by many different names: elder, pastor, overseer, bishop. These terms are used interchangeably for the same office (Acts 20:17-28, Titus 1:5,7).

The other office is deacon.

Meaning of Elder

The different names for elder give an idea of what elders are:

• “overseee” literally means “one who supervises”
• “elder” could refer to chronological age or special status within the community
• “pastor” means shepherd

Elders fulfill a spiritual task. They anoint the sick (James 5:14), preach, teach, admonish, and guard against heresy (Titus 1:9), and govern the church (1 Timothy 5:17). Some have a special role in teaching (1 Timothy 5:17).

The New Testament consistently uses a plural form for elders, which means that the responsibilities were shared by a group of elders.

In summary: elders provide supervision and spiritual guidance for the congregation.

Coming in the next few weeks:

• What is the difference between elders and deacons?
• What will elders do?
• What are the qualifications for elders?