Duties of the Eldership

outlined from “Treaties on the Eldership” by J. W. McGarvey

Introduction: The term “Elder” is the most frequently used term by the Apostles to describe a particular office within a local group of Christians. Those who hold the office of Elder have particular duties that are dictated to them by God for the benefit of the members. Let us consider the terms that describe the office of Eldership and the duties of this office.

I. The term “Elder.”

    A. The term “Elder” was derived like many offices that describe the function of the position. For example, the title President comes from presiding. Secretary comes from the act of writing. Auditor from the act of hearing reports. Similarly, Elders designates the older men or particularly the heads of families (Gen. 50:7; Ex. 4:29; 19:7). This term “Elders” implies their maturity of spiritual experience.

    B. Another term found in the New Testament to describe this position is Bishop. A Bishop is an overseer. It describes the nature of their work. In the Old Testament, overseers were employed for their supervision (2 Chron. 34:12). In the New Testament, we find this term preceding the qualifications for Eldership (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:7). In fact, Christ himself is described as the Bishop of our souls (1 Pet. 2:25). The term Bishop “designates persons who have oversight of the persons for the purpose of directing their labors and securing a faithful performance of the tasks assigned them... They are appointed to superintend the affairs of the church, to direct the activities of the members, to see that everything was done that should be done, and that it was done by the right person, at the right time, and in the right way.” [McGarvey]

    C. A third term, Shepherd, is also used to describe an Elder in the New Testament. This is the most significant term of the three.

        1. The Jewish shepherd was the ruler, the guide, the protector and the companion of his flock. When dangers arose, he was put to the test (John 10:11-14). David spoke of his duties as a shepherd in relationship to Goliath (1 Sam. 17:34-36).

        2. A shepherd was known by his flock. He was so familiar with his flock that he leads them, and he goes before them, and they follow him (John 10:3-4).

        3. Remember Psalms 23 (Psa. 23:1-4). Is there any doubt that David understood the role of a shepherd?

        4. This term which is so highly exalted in God’s written word, seems to sacred to represent the relationship and responsibility of an uninspired worker for the Lord. However, Jeremiah had foretold the time when the Lord would set up Shepherds to care for his sheep while he was condemning those who destroyed and scattered Israel (Jer. 23:1-4). The Lord intended to have Elders overseeing his local churches before the church even came into existence!

II. The Elders duties.

    A. Elders are exhorted to be shepherds of the church (1 Pet. 5:2). Notice the NKJV didn’t use the word “feed” for “shepherd” as in the KJV. Many people have misunderstood the word feed to mean public teaching. This has promoted an idea that the major work of the Elders is accomplished each Lord’s day. The Greek word poimaino, from which this word is translated means “the entire work of a shepherd.” A shepherd really doesn’t feed sheep, but rather he pastures the sheep. The shepherd’s duty is to lead the sheep from place to place, to protect them from wild animals and to keep them from straying. Hence, to shepherd or tend the flock is more appropriate.

    B. Notice the emphasis on the Elders duties in Acts 20:28-31. It is obvious that teaching the flock is not the primary concern. The emphasis is on watching the flock against false teachers and evil influences from within and without. The shepherd must watch, warn and protect the flock against such attacks.

    C. Paul emphasizes this point in Titus 1:9-11. Elders must be able to protect the flock by sound words against those who teach things contrary to God’s words.

    D. Elders watch for our souls (Heb. 13:17). Recognizing they will give account to God for every soul under their care! Jacob said it best in Gen. 31:39.

    E. Elders are expressly instructed to take oversight of the flock (1 Pet. 5:2). This oversight essentially means ruling. Many verses convey this same thought (1 Tim. 5:17; 1 Thes. 5:12-13; Heb. 13:7, 17, 24). As members, we are to “obey” and “submit” while it is for the Elders to rule. This ruling is the same as a father leading his family (1 Tim. 3:4-5, 12).

    F. Elders are to teach. One of the qualifications is “apt to teach.” Yet, notice Eph. 4:11. The teachers are identified separate from the Pastor. That is not to say an Elder can not teach. Though it is not his primary role, we understand all Elders are teachers (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:9). Therefore, teaching is one of the Elder’s duties.

Conclusion: The Elders, Bishops, Pastors or Shepherds have a distinct responsibility before the Lord. They are to guide, lead, protect, teach, tend, watch and rule the local church. Let us pray for Elders as every church needs them.