The Role of Elders in the Church
Authority and Expediency
The Role of Elders in the Church
Authority and Expediency
The role of elders in the church is often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about their scope of authority. The New Testament provides guidelines for the function of elders, emphasizing their responsibilities and limitations. While elders do wield a form of governance within the church, their rule is not all-encompassing. Where God has explicitly given commandments or principles, elders have no authority to override or modify them. Their jurisdiction lies primarily in matters of expediency, where God's word has been silent on the specific details.
Biblical Authority: God's Ultimate Rule
Scripture is clear that the ultimate authority belongs to God. In matters where God has ruled, elders have no power to alter or add to the instructions. Paul admonishes the church in Galatians 1:8, "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." Similarly, in Revelation 22:18-19, John warns against adding to or taking away from the words of the prophecy.
The Doctrine of Expediency
When it comes to matters where the Bible is silent, elders exercise their judgment in areas of expediency to facilitate the function of the church. Paul speaks to this concept in 1 Corinthians 6:12: "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient." Here, the Apostle outlines the concept that while a thing may be lawful, it may not necessarily be beneficial or appropriate for the well-being of the church. Elders, in their role, evaluate what is most expedient in carrying out the work of the church in accordance with Scriptural principles.
Case Studies
The Collection for the Saints
In 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, Paul provides a directive for a collection for the saints but leaves the details unspecified. He says, "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him." In this situation, elders might decide the method of collection, whether it be a central box or passing of a basket, as the Bible does not specify the mode.
Time and Place for Worship
Acts 20:7 states, "And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them." While the Bible specifies the first day of the week for the assembling of the saints, it does not dictate the time or location. Elders may make such decisions, taking into account the convenience and needs of the congregation.
The Role of Elders in Guarding Doctrine
Elders are also tasked with guarding the doctrine and moral integrity of the church. In his letter to Timothy, Paul mentions the qualifications and duties of a bishop (or elder), emphasizing the ability to teach and to refute those who contradict sound doctrine (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:9).
Conclusion
The role of elders in the church is neither trivial nor dictatorial. They serve as shepherds and overseers in guiding the church, especially in areas where the Scripture is silent. Nevertheless, their authority does not extend beyond the bounds established by God's word. Understanding this balance is crucial for the health and unity of the church, ensuring both respect for divine authority and the necessary freedom to act in matters of expediency.