Elder

‘Elder’ is the New Testament term used for the senior leadership in a local church (Greek term presbuteros is literally ‘older man’). The words overseer, elder, leader, shepherd or pastor-teacher are used interchangeably, although each emphasises a different aspect of the role. The requirements for these senior leaders are laid out in Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7. They refer to character rather than skills, except that elders are required to have a teaching gift and there is a strong emphasis on their reputation within the family and with outsiders. Elders are responsible for directing the affairs of the church, ruling over it, teaching it (1 Timothy 5:17), caring for their people and protecting them (1 Peter 5:2-5, Acts 20:28-31). (See Deacon, Overseer)