What are the qualifications for elders?

Richview is currently in the process of selecting Elders. On October 28, we will be holding a business meeting to elect our first Board of Elders.

There are two church offices in the Bible: Elder and Deacon. It is best to keep these roles separate. Elders provide supervision and spiritual guidance for the congregation. Deacons serve by administering the finances, buildings, and ministries of the church.

The candidates for elders are Bryan Campbell, Grant Caven, David Cook, and Jon McMurray. The senior pastor is an unelected member of the Board of Elders.

Qualifications

The qualifications for elders are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9. 1 Peter 5:1-4 describes how elders are to conduct themselves.

The emphasis in these passages is on character and godliness. It is emphasized more than skill, age, or any other factor.

We ask that you prayerfully read these passages as we prepare for next week's meeting.

One writer says:

Finding men who desire the noble task of overseer is of great importance. Choosing pastors is the most important decision a congregation makes, for the pastors will shape the congregation through their teaching and their model. And given that, the Lord calls us to find men who "shepherd the flock of God... exercising oversight... willingly, as God would have [us]... eagerly... being examples to the flock" (1 Pet. 5:2-3). May the Lord give us discernment, patience, and clarity of thought and observation as we seek reliable men who desire this noble task. (Thabiti Anyabwile)