Each year, Grace Downtown members are asked to help identify those in our community whom God may be calling to leadership in our community. As we enter into nominations season, this is a prime time to take a look at how leadership is exercised in our community and what the Bible says qualifies men and women to serve in these roles. We begin by looking at the office of Elder:
What do elders do?
Elders fill the church’s highest office, overseeing the doctrine, vision, community life and overall direction of our ministry. At Grace Downtown, this means equipping and training Community Group leaders and serving as the immediate pastoral resource for our Community Groups. Elders meet with, counsel and pray for members, and they interview potential new members. You will see our elders leading prayer during our worship services. In addition, they oversee other discipleship ministries—including our Discipleship Catalyst—and help discern the vision of our church.
What are potential elders like?
The New Testament highlights certain qualities that elders should display: We’re told that they must not be arrogant, argumentative or quickly angered; but rather quick to listen, learn and repent (they should be humble and ‘team ministry’-minded). They shouldn’t be a consistent “critic” of the church, but rather be an active and loving contributor toward helping the church function as a community that demonstrates God’s character. An elder must not be controlled by material possessions (their standard of living) or lust; nor should they be dependent upon things like alcohol, drugs or gluttony to get through their days. Rather, they should demonstrate an abiding dependence on the Holy Spirit.
In short, elders must hold to the highest standards of Christ-likeness.
Who should you nominate?
An elder should be a proven “shepherd”—experienced and motivated to care for, lead and guide others. While these men do not need to be “gray haired,” they should demonstrate maturity, having persevered through trials and relationships. Potential elders have the sort of faith you want to hear from, and live lives that you want to imitate. Elders should be open-handed with their possessions and welcome others into their homes. They should have a firm grasp of the Scripture and theology; be able to teach; and demonstrate a habit of believing prayer and concern for those who are not Christians.
All of our current elders were seasoned Community Group leaders before being nominated, so we encourage you to begin there looking for nominees.
How do I nominate someone?
Only formal members of Grace Downtown are eligible to nominate someone for elder. If you are not a member of Grace Downtown but are a regular part of our community, joining us for Sunday worship or for Community Groups, we encourage you to consider becoming a member, so that we can better care for you and so that you can help shape our community life.
All current members of Grace Downtown are eligible to nominate someone for elder and will receive an email later today with links to the nomination forms. Please be prayerful as you consider who might be a good candidate.