Now that I am an Elder?

Dear Pastors

In my work I advise a fair bit on the role and function of an Elder. My experience in this space is quite varied. Sadly many Pastors (and ultimately local Churches) experience heart ache here.

I know there is a lot that has been written on this topic. Certainly the Bible itself (especially the New Testament) has a fair bit to say on it. But what is very interesting to me is that the NT does NOT set out a prescription for Eldership. In other words no where do you find a passage that defines the role as in a job description for example. You do, however see references that indicate what the role should entail from which of course we deduce what that might look like in a local church in this day and age in New Zealand. I find this particularly interesting. It seems to me that the Apostle Paul left the role description to be interpreted as seemed appropriate for the context and perhaps even according to the skills and competencies of the people (leaders) involved locally. In other words no size fits all.

I have concluded that Paul was concerned that the ROLE was accomplished but the how was much more open.

To that end I recently updated my ‘sample’ ministry description document. I offer it to you this week.

CHURCH ON THE ROCK

Ministry Role Description

Name of Role: Elder

Preamble:

This role description is based on 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 1 Timothy 5:17-21 and Acts 20:25-31.

It assumes that the church is committed to a ministry-led model of leadership. Essentially that means that Elders oversee and govern the local church and the Senior/Sole Pastor is responsible for the day to day leadership and management of the church.

It also assumes the Senior/Sole Pastor is a bona fide Elder.

This role is open to both men and women, single and married. Age is not a barrier.

Responsibilities:

• To: Together with the Pastor oversee the local church and all its various peoples and ministries. This includes babies through to the very elderly.
• To: Be available for hospitality, prayer and pastoral care as time permits.
• To: Do whatever it takes to create a warm and contagious ‘family feel’ where everybody is welcome. Assist in creating a church where Love, Acceptance and Forgiveness flows freely.
• To: Pray and discern what God is saying to the church.
• To: Provide protection, counsel, accountability and wisdom to the Senior/Sole Pastor.
• To: Resolve on-going conflict and to attend to church discipline as and when required.
• To: Take an interest in one ‘core’ ministry of the church.
• To: Ensure all legal, employment, financial and other compliance obligations are attended to in a timely and professional way. NOTE: The Elders can and perhaps should delegate out some or all of this responsibility.

Expectations:

• Maintain a personal vital and contagious spirituality.
• Look after your family and include them in your ministry role where appropriate.
• Support our church’s programmes, ministries, people and Sunday Worship Services.
• Attendance at monthly Eldership meetings having read all papers and ensure you are familiar with any strategic concerns.
• Be committed to biblical unity (which is NOT uniformity).

[END]

I would be glad for any thoughts you might have.

Blessings

Alan

Alan Vink is currently the Executive Director for LeadershipWorx. Prior to this role he has been the Executive Director of Willow Creek Association NZ (WillowNZ), a Baptist pastor (23 years), Bible College teacher, and church consultant.