What are an elder's duties in the church?

Definition of “Elder” in the New Testament Context

The term “elder” (Greek: presbuteros) historically denoted a mature figure entrusted with leadership among the people of Israel (cf. Numbers 11 and Deuteronomy 27). In the New Testament, elders serve as overseers within the local church. Early manuscripts, including ancient papyri (such as portions of 1 Timothy found in P46), confirm instructions for appointing elders in earliest Christian communities, supporting the consistency of these directives through centuries of manuscript transmission.

Biblical Qualifications of an Elder

Scripture outlines the character requirements for elders clearly. In 1 Timothy 3:2, we read, “An overseer, then, must be above reproach.” Other passages, such as Titus 1:6–9 and 1 Peter 5:1–4, mirror these standards. The qualifications emphasize a life marked by moral integrity, proven faith, and spiritual maturity:

• Marital and Familial Faithfulness: “He must be the husband of but one wife” (1 Timothy 3:2) underscores faithfulness and stable family leadership.

• Self-Control and Temperance: Gentle conduct, sober-mindedness, not given to drunkenness or violent behavior (1 Timothy 3:2–3).

• Ability to Teach: Elders must be equipped to instruct from Scripture and refute false doctrine (Titus 1:9).

• Good Reputation: Both within and outside the church, they are to demonstrate consistent Christian character (1 Timothy 3:7).

Discovery of early church orders in writings like the Didache (late first century) affirms the continuity of these qualifications, reflecting a position that was recognized and respected in the nascent Christian communities.

Shepherding God’s Flock

A principal duty of an elder is to act as a shepherd. In 1 Peter 5:2–3, we read, “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you… not lording it over those entrusted to you.” This shepherding involves guiding, guarding, and nurturing believers:

• Providing Spiritual Care: Elders are called to look after the spiritual well-being of members, offering support in prayer, counsel, and biblical wisdom.

• Leading by Example: They demonstrate godly conduct and encourage others to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

Archaeological records of house churches in the Middle East (e.g., the early Christian gathering place at Dura-Europos) suggest that a recognized leadership structure, including elders, was vital in nurturing and unifying believers.

Oversight and Administration

Elders also function as overseers. Acts 20:28 states: “Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.” This supervisory role includes:

• Managing Church Affairs: Elders attend to practical governance, keeping the congregation organized in ministry, finances, and service.

• Facilitating Church Discipline: They work to restore those who have erred (Matthew 18:15–17) and maintain the church’s purity.

Such structured leadership contributed to the spread and stability of early Christianity, as evidenced by historical correspondences such as those by Ignatius of Antioch (second century), who highlighted the importance of orderly church leadership under overseers/elders.

Guarding Sound Doctrine

Elders bear responsibility for protecting biblical truth from distortion. Titus 1:9 makes this plain: “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” Key tasks include:

• Refuting False Teaching: Elders must be well-grounded in Scripture to recognize and correct error.

• Teaching Faithful Doctrine: They ensure that the congregation remains centered on the gospel’s core truths and the saving work of the risen Christ.

High-profile manuscript discoveries, such as the many early papyrus fragments containing Paul’s letters, give textual support for the reliability of passages that stress the need for doctrinal faithfulness—reinforcing that these mandates originate from Scripture’s earliest transmissions.

Intercessory Prayer and Ministry of the Word

Elders are called to uphold the congregation through prayer and the preaching of Scripture. James 5:14 instructs: “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him…” Practical applications of this duty involve:

• Praying Over the Ill: They lay hands on the sick, anoint them with oil, and beseech God’s healing power. Anecdotal cases of people testifying to miraculous healings around the globe attest to the continued authenticity of healing prayer.

• Dedicating Themselves to Scripture: Elders study and proclaim the Word, ensuring its faithful exposition and application.

Equipping and Edifying the Body

In Ephesians 4:11–12, shepherds (pastors) and teachers—roles often associated with elders—are given “to equip the saints for works of ministry.” Elders help believers mature in the faith:

• Identifying Spiritual Gifts: They encourage the congregation to use their God-given abilities for service.

• Mentoring Future Leaders: By modeling faithfulness and knowledge of Scripture, they train others in leadership roles.

This pattern of leadership continuity appears from the earliest churches. The pottery and inscriptions in first-century Christian communities show strong intergenerational mentorship, ensuring the durability and consistency of the faith, aligning with the biblical emphasis on discipleship.

Fostering a Culture of Servant Leadership

Elders lead as servants, not as domineering rulers. Jesus highlighted servant leadership in Matthew 20:25–28, a principle elders exemplify by:

• Putting Others First: They demonstrate humility, caring for physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

• Setting a Tone of Mutual Honor: They cultivate love and respect, reflecting Christ’s example of self-sacrifice.

This servant-minded approach is cross-verified by historical accounts of early believers who rescued and cared for the sick, showing that the calling to serve has tangible expressions in times of crisis.

Accountability and Team Ministry

Biblical and historical evidence points to elders functioning as a plurality in most congregations. This plurality fosters accountability and wise counsel:

• Shared Responsibility: No single leader shoulders all tasks alone, preventing burnout or authoritarian leadership.

• Spiritual Support Network: Elders encourage one another, challenge lapses, and maintain doctrinal purity collectively.

Having multiple elders was addressed in early Christian writings (e.g., the letters of Polycarp), testifying to this model’s longstanding place in church structure.

Practical Governance in a Modern Context

Though times and technologies change, the essential tasks of elders remain. They coordinate local outreaches, counsel during personal crises, and provide a spiritual covering for those entrusted to their care. By anchoring their leadership in Scripture’s unchanging principles, elders help contemporary believers navigate modern challenges with timeless wisdom.

Conclusion

Elders shoulder a sacred trust to shepherd, oversee, teach, protect, and serve the church. Their duties, grounded in Scripture and verified by centuries of consistent manuscript evidence, archaeological corroboration, and faithful testimony, remain essential for the well-being and growth of Christian communities. As guided by the biblical blueprint, elders reflect Christ’s care, equipping believers for service and helping the church fulfill its purpose to glorify God.