Many questions arise when congregations consider the qualifications and work of elders. Several of these issues are addressed in the thirteen‑lesson workbook Elders, Overseers, Shepherds, with an expanded eighteen‑lesson edition also available in PDF format. Below are some of the more common questions that frequently arise within local congregations.

How Many Elders Should a Congregation Have?

Scripture requires a plurality of elders—at least two. A congregation should appoint as many elders as there are men who meet the biblical qualifications. Paul wrote, “If any man desires the position of a bishop…” (1 Timothy 3:1), indicating that all qualified men may serve.

While it is lawful to appoint multiple elders, wisdom and expediency must also be considered. For example, appointing ten elders in a congregation of fifty may not promote effective leadership. All things in the church should work toward the edification of the body (1 Corinthians 10:23–33; 14:26).

A congregation with only two elders is also fragile. It is only one death, one move, or one loss of qualification away from having no eldership at all. For this reason, congregations should continue developing and encouraging qualified leadership.

What If an Elder’s Child Becomes Unfaithful?

This question depends on the specific circumstances. Factors such as whether the child lives at home or independently must be considered. In some cases, a child’s unfaithfulness may require an elder’s resignation; in others, it may not. Each situation must be evaluated individually.

Scripture teaches that a righteous man may have a wicked son (Ezekiel 18:5–10). Proverbs 22:6 is a general principle, not an absolute promise. When such situations arise, the most important consideration is how the elder responds. Does he take responsibility by exhorting, correcting, and seeking restoration, or does he ignore the situation as Eli did with his sons? God condemned Eli because he failed to restrain them (1 Samuel 3:13).

What If an Elder’s Wife Becomes Unfaithful?

Scripture also places qualifications on the wives of elders and deacons: “Likewise their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things” (1 Timothy 3:11). A man may not serve if his wife does not meet these qualifications.

An elder must maintain his qualifications, and his wife must do the same. Her sinful conduct may disqualify him to the point that resignation becomes necessary. However, the church should observe how she responds—whether she repents and seeks forgiveness. As with other matters, each situation must be handled carefully and individually.

Do Elders Oversee Matters of Faith and Judgment?

Yes. Scripture makes no distinction that limits elders to one category and not the other. In matters of faith—things specifically commanded—elders must follow God’s Word without deviation. For example, God has specified singing in worship (Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19). Elders have no authority to introduce instrumental music.

In matters of judgment—things generically authorized—elders must use wisdom, experience, and biblical principles to choose lawful expedients. All expedients must first be lawful (1 Corinthians 6:12; 10:23). For example, arranging singing instruction for young men is lawful and expedient, while hiring an instrumental accompanist is not. Other matters of judgment include worship times, order of services, frequency of meetings, classroom arrangements, and teacher assignments.

What Is the Scope of an Eldership’s Authority?

Elders have authority over the flock, not flocks. They oversee a local congregation, not multiple congregations (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:7). This excludes elders overseeing other churches, human institutions, unauthorized works, or the private affairs of members—except where those matters affect faithfulness to God or the church’s reputation.

Does Elders’ Authority Extend Beyond the Assembly?

Yes. It is incorrect to assume that elders have authority only during worship assemblies. Scripture uses the word “among” to describe relationships, not locations (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2).

The church exists even when not assembled. Elders care for the sick (James 5:14), distribute aid to needy saints (Acts 11:29–30), and help the weak—including those who may neglect assembling (Acts 20:28, 35). Like good shepherds, elders are responsible for sheep who wander (Matthew 18:12–14).

How Can a Young Man Prepare to Become an Elder?

Preparation must begin early. A man should:

• Marry a faithful Christian woman
• Build a strong marriage
• Raise children in the Lord
• Make his home a place of hospitality
• Be active in prayer, teaching, and evangelism
• Study diligently (2 Timothy 2:15)
• Examine himself by Scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5)
• Guard his reputation (Proverbs 22:1)
• Develop a deep love for souls

He must also reach sufficient spiritual maturity to meet all qualifications.

How Long Should an Elder Serve?

An elder should serve as long as he remains qualified and faithfully performs the work. Scripture establishes no term limits. The same biblical qualifications that authorize his appointment also determine whether he may continue to serve.

Final Thoughts

Additional questions will surely arise. Members with concerns or inquiries about the eldership are encouraged to speak with the elders so these matters may be prayerfully considered.

— Daniel R. Vess