stephen R Harrison

Before a man in the local church is approached about becoming a potential elder candidate, the elders in that local church should be sure that specific prerequisites have been met. By investigating Scripture and establishing agreed-upon prerequisites for elder candidates, local church elders can effectively identify men who may be called to serve as elders. Because proper oversight of the local church is vital to the spiritual health, ministry, and mission, our elders have established requirements that each potential elder must possess in increasing measure to be considered for eldership.

Some elements to consider for the prospective elder candidate:

• Meets the 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5 requirements for eldership
• Has a strong sense of calling to shepherd the church
• Has been observed shepherding others well in various situations over time
• Have read through the Bible and can discuss doctrine essential to the faith
• Agrees with and submits to our church’s doctrinal statement
• Agrees with and practices our church’s mission and vision
• Currently shepherds a group (2 or more) of people or ministry at our local church
• Has been an active church member in good standing for a lengthy period
• Is visibly committed to and knowledgeable of the church’s worship services, training meetings, ministries, outreaches, and events
• Is actively involved in discipling a small group of people
• Is significantly serving in the church
• Regularly, sacrificially, and joyfully contributes financially to the church
• Is committed, content, and not looking to move for at least the next five years
• Is not overly committed to other leadership roles that may bring about a conflict of interest and schedule such coaching travel sports, school board, governmental appointments, etc.
• Is someone we consider an example in marriage, parenting, and lifestyle
• Does not have accusations or examples of bad character in or outside the church body
• Does not have unresolved conflict/unforgiveness (as much as depends on them)
• Has read one of the suggested books on eldership (see Appendix K).

Discussion Questions:

1. Of the prerequisites, which ones (if any) do you not meet?
2. Are you currently completing any of these? Which ones?
3. Which of these criteria would potentially disqualify you?
4. Do you disagree with any of these standards? Why?
5. Are there other potential prerequisites not listed here?