Leadership in the Church of Christ is divided into three different roles: elders, deacons, and ministers. We would like you to get to know those who lead our congregation.

Elders

One group of functional leaders that God placed within the church is described by three different terms in the New Testament. We usually call them “elders” (Titus 3:1), but two other terms used in the New Testament to refer to this group and the work they do are “overseer” (I Timothy 3:1) and “shepherd” (I Peter 5:1-2).

In part, we know the responsibilities of the elder/overseer/shepherd by how these terms were used in New Testament times. The title “elder” indicated someone who, because of experience and wisdom, was recognized as a community leader and an example. The word “overseer” (or “bishop”) suggested a manager or administrator. It carried the idea of someone who was a “steward,” that is, someone responsible for ensuring that jobs get done and that the general welfare of the community is provided for. And finally, the word “shepherd” (or “pastor”) indicated a person who cared for the well-being of others. It suggested the idea of being responsible for protecting and providing for others.

Two marked lists of qualifications of the elder/overseer/shepherd are found in I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. The purpose of both of these passages is to show us the kind of leaders God wants us to have. We are blessed to have three men like these shepherding our congregation.