Biblical Eldership Church Leadership

Appointment ofElders

able to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict” (Titus 12%), so time needs to be allotted to examine the prospective elder regarding his knowledge and ability to use his Bible to counsel people and direct the church. For example, the candidate should be able to open the Bible and answer questions such as “What does the Bible teach about divorce and remarriage?” “Where in the Bible does it teach Christ’s divine nature?” “What is the gospel message?” “What does the Bible say about male-female roles?” “What does the Bible say about church discipline?” and many more. Opportunity must be provided for members of the congregation, either verbally or in written form such as through an elder-evaluation survey, to express freely their questions, doubts, or approval of a can didate for eldership. Since God’s Word provides an objective, public standard, everyone is responsible to see that God’s requirements for eldership are followed. Finally, the elders, acting as the chief representatives and stewards of God’s household, will formally state, in full consultation with the church, their approval, rejection, reservations, or counsel concerning the prospective elder. After the examination process and the elders’ final approval, the candidate should be publicly installed into office. The word “first” in 1 Timothy 3: 10 informs us that there is an order to observe when ap pointing elders or deacons. The text reads, “And let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons” (italics added). A prospective elder’s or deacon’s character must first be examined. Only after he is shown to be biblically qualified can he be installed into office. The New Testament provides little detailed instruction about the elder’s public installation into office, and the Old Testament says noth ing about it. In contrast, there was an elaborate and detailed ceremo nial procedure for installing the Old Testament priest. There were spe cial sacrifices to be offered, special washings, ceremonial garments, prescribed actions on certain days, and anointing with holy oil (Ex. 28240-29241). No one could deviate even slightly from these prescribed laws. New Testament elders and deacons, however, are not anointed priests INSTALLATION

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