WHAT IS THE ROLE OF AN ELDER?

In 1st Timothy 3:1-7 the Apostle Paul lists the qualities of an overseer or an elder. Elders are responsible for the primary leadership and oversight of a congregation. While the congregational leader is the head elder, the Bible outlines the functions and roles of all elders. As mentioned, we find that elders are to lead the congregation (see 1 Timothy 5:17, Titus 1:7 and 1 Peter 5:1-2). Elders also teach and preach the Word of God (1 Timothy 3:2, 2 Timothy 4:2 and Titus 1:9). In addition, elders are to protect the congregation from false teachers (Acts 20:17, 28-31, while exhorting and admonishing the members of the congregation in sound doctrine (1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 3:13-17, and Titus 1:9). The Bible tells us that elders are to visit the sick and be active in prayer (James 5:14 and Acts 20:35). Elders are equipped to judge doctrinal issues (Acts 15:16).