Elder

Hello everyone! Elder. A person of greater age than someone specified. In the New Testament the terms overseer, elder, pastor and shepherd reference the same role. (ESV Global SB Notes)

(EBD) The “elders” of the New Testament church were the pastors. Bishops or overseers. Leaders and rulers of the flock. Ephes 4:11-13; Acts 20:28; 1 Thess 5:12

Everywhere in the New Testament bishop and presbyter. Presbyter in the early Church is an office bearer who exercised teaching, priestly, and administrative functions. Titles given to one and the same office of the Christian church. The presbyter or elder because of his age or gravity, can be called a bishop or overseer depending on his duty. Titus 1:5 7; Acts 20:17 -28; Phil 1:1

Institutionalized Church: The Elder and Hierarchy

I have met many men of young age referring to themselves as an elder. Ephesians 4:11-13 does not mention the office of elder. The early church had structure but did not perform in a hierarchical manner. The order of the offices are of no importance. Edifying the body of Christ is a function of each office. The Institutionalized Church created by man is an hierarchical organization. An organization composed of flattering titles and doctrines of men. Ambitious men full of the pride of life and rising to the top. Men unwilling to heed to any form of correction. They have harden hearts and a seared conscious.

An organization built on rank, stature and flattering titles. “In some Christian traditions (Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, Methodism). An elder is an ordained person who serves a local church or churches. The elder has been ordained to a ministry of word, sacrament and order. Filling the preaching and pastoral offices.” Wikipedia. This doctrine is a commandment of men. It is not supported in the New Testament. It is a tradition of men. ^“Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Mark 7:7 NKJV

I encourage everyone reading this brief article to do a indebt study of the office of elder for yourself. What is being taught and applied by spiritual leaders should always be supported by the word of God.

Sister Brenda