The Role of Elder at Church at the Grove

The term “elder” has been misconstrued over time to mean a number of different things. This document explains how Church at the Grove defines eldership and the qualifications for elders.

Definition

Throughout scripture, elders are synonymous with pastors. The actual verb used in scripture is poimaino, which literally means “to shepherd” or “to tend a flock.” An elder’s primary role in the church is not to serve as a corporate board member but rather as a shepherd serving the flock.

At Church at the Grove, we have vocational elders and lay elders. While vocational elders have more time to serve and shepherd the flock, lay elders serve an equally important role and responsibility. The role of shepherding the church should not be left to vocational elders or staff members, but should be shared equally among the elder team. Elders should minister and shepherd to grow the church to Christian maturity.

Qualifications (1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1)

Desire to be an Elder

The men on the elder team need to be men who want to serve as elders. Aspiration and desire are necessary because the role of an elder demands significant time and commitment. If someone has to be coaxed into the position, they could become frustrated, tired, and burned out with the weight of their position.

Exemplify Godly Character

Elders should be men of high character who set a godly example that leads people to Christ. This should include, but is not necessarily limited to:

• Above Reproach - This does not mean that the elder is sinless or without struggle but instead demonstrates an exemplary degree of Christlikeness, free from conspicuous sin.
• Self-Controlled - Elders must be men of restraint, willing to go without for the sake of Christ. These men should not have secret addictions to alcohol, drugs, pornography, or gambling. They should also have control over their spending, anger, and language.
• Gentle -  Elders should not be domineering or dictatorial, but instead gentle giants, exercising authority while still displaying the love of Jesus.
• Not Greedy - Elders should not live with the desire to acquire large sums of wealth. Instead, elders should be generous with the resources that God has blessed them with and lead the church to be generous as well.

Able to Teach the Bible

Teaching the Bible is central in shepherding and leading the church to Christian maturity. This does not necessarily mean that the elder has the capacity to teach on Sunday morning, but they should be able to communicate biblical passages that are true to the text in small-group and one-on-one settings.

Leads Family Well

The elder should lead his family well. How can an elder be expected to lead their spiritual family if they are not able to lead their physical families? This includes:

• One-Woman Man This means that the elder must be a faithful husband and uphold the sacredness of marriage. This does not mean that one has to be married to be an elder at Church at the Grove; however, they should still be practicing sexual purity in their relationships.
• Effective Father - This does not mean that you have perfect children, but that you are intentional about leading your family toward Christ. The elder should bring godly discipline and love into the home.