Leadership in the church is a high calling. The Bible outlines the roles and qualifications for elders and deacons, emphasizing character and faithfulness. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture teaches about these important positions.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Elderly
What Does The Bible Say About Elders And Deacons
1 Timothy 3:1-2
“Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach…”
This verse highlights the qualities that an overseer, or elder, should possess. They are to be individuals of good character, known for their faithfulness and self-control. Additionally, they should be hospitable and able to effectively teach others.
1 Timothy 3:8-9
“In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.”
Just as elders, deacons also need to exhibit qualities that command respect. They should be sincere in their actions, not given to excessive drinking or greed. It is vital for deacons to firmly grasp the core teachings of the Christian faith and uphold them with integrity.
1 Timothy 5:17
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of elders who fulfill their responsibilities effectively. Those who lead and guide the church with skill and dedication are deserving of recognition and honor, particularly those who are actively involved in preaching and teaching.
1 Peter 5:1-2
“To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them… not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
This verse reminds elders to shepherd the congregation with humility, compassion, and a heart of service. They are to lead by example, nurturing and protecting the church entrusted to their care, rather than exerting authority over them.
Acts 20:28
“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”
Elders are entrusted with the responsibility to oversee the spiritual well-being of the church. They are called to diligently watch over themselves and the congregation, recognizing the precious value of the church for which Jesus Christ sacrificed his life.
Acts 6:3
“Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them”
In this verse, the early church leaders instruct the believers to select individuals who are filled with the Holy Spirit and possess wisdom to serve as deacons. This shows the importance of spiritual discernment and character when appointing individuals to serve in these positions.
Titus 1:5-6
“The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless… “
The apostle Paul instructed Titus to appoint qualified elders in every town where the believers were located. The elders should be individuals of impeccable character and reputation, setting a moral example for the congregation.
Hebrews 13:17
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.”
Believers are encouraged to have trust and respect for their leaders, submitting to their authority. These leaders bear the responsibility of caring for and guiding the congregation, and when they are supported and respected, their work becomes a source of joy and benefit to the entire church community.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the efforts of those who serve as elders and leaders in the church. Acknowledging their hard work, care, and guidance fosters a culture of respect and love within the congregation.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
“This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
Leaders in the church are referred to as servants of Christ, entrusted with the sacred truths of the Gospel. Faithfulness in stewarding these truths is of utmost importance, as they guide and lead the congregation in their spiritual journey.
Titus 1:7-9
“Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless… He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.”
An overseer, or elder, is responsible for overseeing the affairs of God’s household, the church. They should possess a blameless character and hold steadfastly to the core teachings of the faith. This enables them to effectively encourage and equip others with sound doctrine and address any opposition to the truth.
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
Younger members of the church are urged to submit to the guidance and authority of their elders. In addition, all believers are encouraged to practice humility, recognizing that God blesses those who are humble and opposes those who are proud.
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.”
The early apostles, Paul and Barnabas, appointed elders in each church they established. This process was accompanied by prayer and fasting, affirming their trust in the Lord’s guidance in selecting individuals to serve in leadership roles.
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”
In times of sickness or need, believers are instructed to call upon the elders of the church for prayer and anointing with oil. This act symbolizes the seeking of God’s healing and blessing upon the person in need.
1 Peter 5:4
“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”
This verse reminds elders and leaders that their ultimate reward awaits them when the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, returns. Their faithful service and leadership will be recognized with an imperishable crown of glory.
1 Timothy 3:12
“A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well.”
A deacon should exhibit faithfulness to his spouse and demonstrate effective management of his family and household. These qualities reflect the ability to serve and lead in the church community.
Philippians 1:1
“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons.”
Paul and Timothy addressed their letter to the believers in Philippi, extending greetings to both the overseers (elders) and deacons. This shows that these roles were vital in the early church and an integral part of the Christian community.
1 Corinthians 16:15
“You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters…
This verse commends the household of Stephanas for their commitment to serving the Lord’s people. It underscores the importance of selfless service and dedication among believers.
1 Timothy 3:13
“Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.”
This verse highlights the reward that comes with faithful service in leadership roles within the church. Those who serve well not only gain a commendable reputation among others but also deepen their faith in Christ Jesus.
1 Peter 5:3
“Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
Elders and leaders are instructed not to exercise control or dominance over the congregation but instead to lead by example. Their conduct should serve as a model for others to follow.
1 Timothy 5:19-20
“Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.”
Accusations against elders should not be taken lightly, and multiple witnesses are required to validate them. However, if elders are found guilty of sin, they are to be openly reproved as a cautionary measure for others.
Acts 11:30
“This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.”
In this verse, believers sent their financial contribution to the elders of the Jerusalem church through Barnabas and Saul (later known as Paul). This demonstrates the trust placed in the elders to responsibly handle the resources of the church.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
The believers are encouraged to remember and honor their leaders who faithfully shared the Word of God with them. Reflecting on the positive outcomes of their lives and imitating their faith is a means of growing in spiritual maturity.
Acts 20:28
“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”
Elders are entrusted with the responsibility of shepherding the church, recognizing that the church was purchased by God through the sacrifice of His Son. Their role is to protect and care for the spiritual well-being of the congregation.
1 Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
Elders and leaders are called to humble themselves under God’s authority, recognizing that it is through His power and timing that they receive honor and exaltation. Humility is a vital characteristic for effective leadership.