Question 43 :: What is the role of elders?

Answer:

Elders are leaders in the church called by God and set apart to spiritually shepherd the flock.

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Children:

Elders are spiritual leaders in the church.

Peter 5:1-4 

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 

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Commentary:

Elders are men set apart for the spiritual shepherding of the church. James A. Garfield—the twentieth president of the United States—was quoted as saying, “Serving as an elder in Christ’s church is the highest position a man can attain on this earth.” The responsibility of elders is to oversee the flock of God (the church), watching on behalf of their souls, being aware that they will give account to the Lord for the exercise of their leadership. The main duties of elders are to guard the flock against false doctrine, pray for the sick and hurting, and preserve unity. One aspect of the elder’s obligation is to “admonish” us when they see we are in spiritual danger. The term “admonish” conveys the complementary ideas of encouragement and correction. Elders seek to encourage and correct with loving care. The believing will appreciate that and respond with gratitude.

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Further Study:

Acts 20:28-32; Ephesians 4:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; Timothy 3:1-7, 5:17-22; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 13:17; James 5:13-15; 1 Peter 5:1-5.