How to Become an Elder at Grace Bible Church
Eldership at Grace Bible Church is taken very seriously for an Elder has
great responsibilities toward God and His Church. He cannot fulfill these unless he meets the qualifications of both character and giftedness that God has set forth in the Scriptures. A fully qualified Elder is a strong protection to the church. An unqualified Elder is a great danger to her. The Grace Bible Church policy defining the process of becoming an Elder is available from the church office to any church member upon request. The basic steps of the process are outlined below.
1) A man is saved and begins his walk with Jesus Christ.
2) He grows in maturity through various means (see below) and is recognized by those in the congregation are meeting the qualifications for an Elder specified in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9 (see attached paper). He is then nominated by a Church Member to be considered by the Elders as a candidate.
3) The Elders evaluate the nominee as to his qualifications and then direct him accordingly to grow in any areas of deficiency and/or prepare for Elder Internship and ordination as an Elder.
4) Elder Intern is presented to Congregation for affirmation.
Means of spiritually maturing.
A) A consistent personal devotional life of Bible study and prayer
B) Involvement in personal discipleship both as one who is being discipled and as someone who is discipling others.
C) Consistent and humble usage of their spiritual gifts in ministry.
D) Taking advantage of any special classes helpful toward Elder training
including classes in theology, Biblical books and practical theology. (These classes are usually operated on a rotating schedule – Hermeneutics; Theology Overview; Survey of the Bible; Practical Theology; Biblical Eldership. For those who desire to pursue any of these areas in self study, please talk with a Pastor or Elder to set up a course of self study).E) Reading of Christian books helpful to a greater understanding of the
Bible, theology and its application to daily life. (A list of suggested books
and resources is attached)
If you are taking advantage of the various means of spiritually maturing as noted above and are interested in becoming an Elder, whether in the near or distant future, then please talk with a Pastor or Elder for specific direction in preparing yourself for this wonderful and important ministry – “It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do.” (1 Timothy 3:1)
Grace Bible Church
Policy on Selecting and Removing Elders
(Revised and approved May 16, 2004)
An Elder has great responsibilities toward God and His Church. He cannot fulfill these unless he meets the qualifications of both character and giftedness that God has set forth in the Scriptures. A fully qualified Elder is a strong protection to the church. An unqualified Elder is a great danger to her. The process outlined below is to help determine if a man is equipped in character and in giftedness to serve as an Elder. If this is done correctly, then the church will simply be recognizing a man God has set apart to this ministry, and the church will be blessed. If done incorrectly, then it will be men just choosing other men to be leaders, and the church will suffer.
It is also recognized that a man that gives all appearance of being qualified at one point in time may later prove himself unqualified. Therefore this policy includes a means to remove unqualified men from being Elders.
Also included is a brief outline of how a man can work toward developing himself to be an Elder. It is our belief that though not every Christian man will have the necessary gifts to be an Elder, nevertheless, every Christian man should be developing themselves to meet the spiritual and character qualifications of being an Elder.
The Elder Process will be accomplished in five phases
1) Nomination
2) Evaluation
3) Internship
4) Confirmation
5) Continuing Reaffirmation
1. NOMINATION TO PROCESS (Relevant Scriptures: Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:1; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 1:5)
A. Identified by Elder.
Each existing Elder should, as a part of regular ministry, identify men who desire to be an Elder and may be qualified. Such men should be discipled and prepared to be an Elder. Such an identified individual should be:
1) In the discipleship process (discipling or being discipled)
2) Involved in ministry of the church
3) Ready for simultaneous evaluation and internship
B. Identified by a member of the church.
Members of the church should suggest to the Elders men they recognize may meet the qualifications for an Elder, are doing the work of the ministry and desire to do the work of an Elder. Such an identified individual should be:
1) Active in a ministry of the church
2) Actively involved in the discipleship process (discipling or being
discipled)3) Assigned a sponsoring Elder for initial screening and assistance.
C. Approval to proceed in the process
1) A current Elder will meet with the nominee and completes an Initial
Evaluation Questionnaire with him (see Appendix A). Process continues only after individual has completed this Initial Evaluation Questionnaire, given serious consideration and prayer to the matter, and still desires to proceed.2) The sponsoring Elder reports to all the Elders his findings during the
initial screening. A potential candidate does not proceed unless approved by all the Elders. Those turned down at this phase are to be encouraged to work in the areas of weakness pointed out for possible future re-nomination.
D. Assigned Discipling Elder.
Each approved candidate is assigned to a existing Elder for discipleship,
examination and help through the process (i.e. contact, guidance, support, accountability, modeling, examination of home life and reputation in community).
2. EVALUATION (1-3 months) (Relevant Scriptures: 1 Timothy
3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9)
A. The discipling Elder works with the nominee to prepare
the following documents:(see Appendix B)
1) Testimony of salvation
2) Testimony of current ministries
3) Doctrine
4) Philosophy of ministry
B. Assigned Discipling Elder Responsibilities (This
formally begins with nomination approval)
1) Assistance with written documents.
2) Preparation for oral evaluation
a) Identify any doctrinal or Biblical deficiency and provide or direct to training classes as needed (Elder training classes in Biblical hermeneutics, Theology and Eldership are generally offered in a rotating schedule).
b) Identify any ministry weakness
c) Identify any character weakness (making sure the “tough”/sensitive
questions are asked)3) Spending time to get an accurate picture of family life. The discipling
Elder should be able to identify the strengths and weakness in the candidate’s relationship with wife and children.4) Investigation of reputation outside the church. The candidate is to give
a list of references which are to be contacted by an Elder. In addition,
neighbors, known friends and co-workers should also be contacted. (See
Appendix C for possible questions for this investigation).
C. Oral Evaluation
1) All Elders are to be given copies of the documents prepared in “A”
above.2) The candidate is to be evaluated by the Elders only after his discipling
Elder indicates the candidate is ready and meets the character qualifications.3) The candidate is to be evaluated before all the current Elders. Elders
from other churches may be invited. If there are less than three Elders in the church, Elders from churches of like faith and practice are to be invited until there is a minimum of three Elders (pastors) present for the
examination.4) The candidate is to orally present his testimony of salvation and
ministry.5) Character witnesses are to give testimony to the candidate’s character
and effectiveness of ministry (these may be written).6) The candidate is to be questioned in three specific areas. (The
Discipling Elder will use Appendix D to help the candidate prepare)1) General Bible Knowledge
2) Doctrine/Theology
3) Practical application of Doctrine.
D. Approval by Elders to proceed to internship
After oral examination, all Elders (pastors) present are to decide by
unanimous consensus if the candidate is ready to proceed to internship or
needs to continue working in areas of weakness.
3. INTERNSHIP (6 Months – 1 year)
A. Assigned elder continues in mentoring relationship for
accountability and assistance
B. Elder intern attends all elder meetings and functions.
He may speak to issues being discussed, but does not have a say in the decisions of the elders.
C. Elder intern is to continue reading through books
(especially in any areas of weakness) and discussing them with the discipling elder. If the intern has not already worked through Biblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch and its Study Guide, the intern should do so. (See Appendix E for a list of recommended books)
4. CONFIRMATION
A. Elder Approval. Upon the recommendation of the discipling Elder, the
Elder Intern will be interviewed by the current Elders for final approval to become an Elder.B. Congregational Notification. Upon unanimous approval of the current
Elders, the Elder Intern will be presented to the congregation as being ready to become an Elder. The congregation will be instructed to go to him if they have any personal problem with him or information demonstrating that he is not qualified. They may also come to the elders with any information that might demonstrate the candidate is not yet qualified and the elders will then investigate. A period of at least one month will be given to the church for taking such actions.C. Congregational Affirmation. After at least one month has passed since
the congregation was notified, the Elder Intern will be presented to the
congregation for affirmation. Affirmation must be by at least 75% of the
Active Voting Members.D. Installation. After affirmation by the congregation, the Elder Intern
will be installed as an Elder by the laying on of hands by the existing
elders. This will be done as either a special service or part of a regular
Sunday worship service. (Acts 6:6; 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22; 2 Tim. 1:6)
5. RE-AFFIRMATION, REVIEW, CORRECTION, REMOVAL
(Matthew 18:15-20; Galatians 6:1-4; 1 Timothy 5:19-20).
A. Reaffirmation: Elders are to be reaffirmed as to their
qualifications each year by the membership at the Annual Business Meeting.
1) If an Elder receives less than a 95% vote of reaffirmation, he is to be
reinvestigated as to his qualifications.2) A reinvestigation of qualification begins with asking those who gave a
no confidence vote to:a) talk with the Elder about the reason(s)
b) bring the matter before the Elders, with the accused Elder present, to
either affirm the accusation of lack of qualification or affirm that the
concern has been resolvedc) If less than two people come forward to meet with the Elders to bring
formal charges, then the matter will be dropped.
B. Accusations: Elders may be subject to accusations at
any time of the year.
1) The accusations must be made by at least two people.
2) Those making the accusations should meet first with the Elder in
question to express their concerns.3) If there is no resolution in private or the matter would disqualify the
man from continuing as an Elder, the matter is to be brought before all the Elders for investigation.
C. Annual Review.
Each Elder is subject to annual review by the other Elders. Those found
negligent or incompetent to carry out their responsibilities may be subject to Correction and/or Removal as outlined in paragraphs d & e below.
D. Correction: If an Elder is accused as in a. or b.
above, the matter is to be investigated by the other Elders, searching for all relevant facts to determine the truth or falsity of the accusations.
1) If the accusations are determined to be false, those making the false
accusations are to be rebuked, with church discipline carried out if there is no repentance.2) If the accusations are determined to be true, the Elders are to
determine if it is a matter of disqualification from being an Elder or a
matter of correction.a) Disqualification would be for no longer meeting the character
qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, or serious
negligence of responsibilities, or no longer holding to the church’s
Statement of Faith.b) Correction would be for misunderstandings, errors of judgement, minor matters that do not demonstrate a failed character, etc. An Elder that is corrected is to receive it with all humility and demonstrate the fruit of repentance.
E. Removal: An Elder that is found to be disqualified is
to be removed from being an Elder.
1) An Elder that in humility recognizes his failure may resign by publicly
stating that he is no longer qualified and wishes to work on the areas of
failure.2) An Elder who continues in sin or refuses the correction given to him is
to be rebuked before the congregation and removed from being an Elder. An Elder may be removed by unanimous consensus of all the Elders and/or by failure to receive a minimum 75% vote of affirmation of the active members present at a Regular or Special Church Business Meeting.3) If the sin continues, the former Elder is to be disfellowshiped.
Appendix A – Initial Evaluation
Questionnaire for Elders
Directions for the Discipling Elder: Arrange to meet with the Elder nominee and work through this Evaluation Questionnaire with him. Be sure to congratulate him on the nomination to the process of becoming an Elder, for that in itself is an honor and says that his spiritual maturity is beginning to be noticed. Whether he believes himself to be qualified or is able to complete this process or not, it should be an encouragement to be recognized for maturity that is above other Christian men in the church. You may also want to give him a copy of the handout sheets on the Church Officer Qualifications – ELDERS (see below) so that he will have a chance to review them and consider them carefully before he meets with you.
This Questionnaire is simply a way to initially screen the individual as to
how well he currently meets the Scriptural qualifications for an Elder. If in your evaluation you find that there are areas of serous weakness that need to be worked on before he can continue in this process, point those out along with a plan as how he can strengthen or overcome them so that he might be fully qualified in the future. Be encouraging! If there are minor weaknesses, you may work with him in those areas until he is qualified. If there are no serious deficiencies, you may recommend him to the rest of the Elders and he can move forward to the next step of the process.
1. Would you like to serve the Lord by doing the work of an Elder? (1 Timothy 3:1)
2. How long have you been a Christian? (1 Tim. 3:6)
How would you rate your Christian maturity? (1 Tim. 3:6)
Babe Adolescent Young Man Middle Age Mature Senior Saint
3. Is there anything in your life that would cast doubt on your character if
it were known? Those that live godly lives will be slandered (Matt 5:11); is there anything you could be accused of that could be backed up by evidence? (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:6,7)
4. If the people you work with, or if your neighbors were contacted, what
would they say about you? (1 Tim. 3:7)
5. What is your behavior like in social settings? (1 Tim. 3:2)
6. What are your three main goals in life?
What are your financial goals? (1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:7)
Are you content with your present situation of life? If not, what would need to be changed to help you be content? (Phil. 4:11,12)
7. How do you go about making decisions? What process do you use? (1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:8)
Tell about a bad decision you made in the past and how you (could have) corrected it?
8. Do you ever lose your temper? If so, what causes it? (1 Tim. 3:3, Titus 1:7,8)
Is there anyone you resent or hold a grudge against?
9. How do you get along with others? (1 Tim. 3:3)
How do you function within a group of people who have to
make joint decisions?
10. Do you gossip? i.e. talking about others behind their backs, saying
things that are unnecessary, talking to others about someone else’s problem without talking with them first, etc. (Eph. 4:29)
11. What is your view on the use of alcoholic beverages?
Do you partake of alcoholic beverages? Other drugs? (1 Timothy 3:3, Titus 1:7)
12. How would you try to settle a dispute between two people in the church? (Titus 1:8)
13. Describe your personal walk with the Lord? (Titus 1:8)
Do you have a plan to regularly read/study the Bible?
Do you have a plan to spend consistent time in prayer & meditation?
14. Describe what you like to do in your free time? (Titus 1:8)
15. How willing are you to compromise in making decisions with other people? (Titus 1:7)
How do you respond if the decision is not what you wanted?
16. Who was the last person (couple, etc.) you had over to your house for dinner?
How do your respond to the visitors/new people at church? (1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:8)
(I’m shy Talk with them if convenient I go out of my way I invite them home)
17. Have you ever taught a Bible Study of any type? Describe it. Results? (1 Tim. 3:2)
Have you ever discipled someone? If not, would you like to do so?
18. Describe your relationship with your wife? (1 Tim. 3:2, Titus 1:6)
How would your wife describe your relationship with her?
Are you attracted to any woman other than your wife?
If you are single, describe your dating life?
19. Describe your home life? (1 Tim. 3:4)
Are you in debt? If so, to what degree?
Excluding your home loan, you can get out of debt in: >1yr 1-2yr 3-5yr 5-10yr 10+ never!
Have you ever declared bankruptcy? How long ago? Have you
tried to make restitution?
Do you have a good credit rating? (1 Tim. 3:7)
20. Describe your relationship with your children? (1 Tim. 3:4)
Describe the spiritual condition of your children? (Titus 1:6)
Describe how you are trying to raise them in the nature and admonition of the Lord?
21. Is there anything that has not been covered that might disqualify you
from being an Elder?
22. How would you explain the gospel to someone in order to lead them to Christ?
23. What is your own testimony of salvation?
24. Do you have any questions or reservations about the By-Laws of Grace Bible Church?
Can you explain how Grace Bible Church functions/operates
to someone else?
25. Are you in full agreement without reservation with the church’s Statement of Faith?
26. Can you explain/define & defend following doctrines in the church’s
Statement of Faith & tell why they are important? (1 Tim. 1:9)
1) The Holy Scriptures
Verbal, Plenary Inspiration; Inerrancy; Infallibility
2) The True God
A) God The Father – Existence & Attributes
B) God the Son – Nature & Attributes
Virgin Birth; Substitutionary Atonement; Physical Resurrection; Current Ministry
C) God the Holy Spirit – Deity & Attributes
His ministry; Baptism in the Holy Spirit; The Trinity
3) The Devil
The Reality of Angels (good & bad); The Work of the Devil
4) The Creation & Fall of Man
A Six Solar Day Creation (ex-nihilo); The Fall of Man; The Depravity of Man
5) The Grace of God
Salvation by Grace through Faith; Justification; Sanctification;
The Security of the Believer
6) The Church
A) Its Nature
B) Ordinances
Believers Baptism by Immersion; The Lord’s Supper;
C) Duties of Members
(Meeting together; Giving of time, talent & wealth; Personal Evangelism)
D) Separation (From apostasy, worldliness & sinful practices; “Charismatic” gifts & practices; “Divine Healing”)
E) Civil Government (Role of Government;
Extent of Obedience)
7) Eschatology (Pre-millennialism; Pre-Tribulational;
Rapture; The Second Coming of Christ)
8) Israel (God’s plan for)
9) The Righteous & The Wicked (Difference between)
10) The Resurrection & Eternal State (Heaven; Hell)
Church Officer Qualifications – ELDERS
Church Officer Qualifications – ELDERS
1 Timothy 3:1-7 1“It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, uncontentious, free from the love of money. 4He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?); 6and not a new convert, lest he become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he may not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” (NASB)
Titus 1:6-9 —6if a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination. 7For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self©willed, not quick©tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict. (NKJV)
I. Has Six Desirable Personal Qualifications
1. ABOVE REPROACH /Blameless – 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6-7 ajnepivlhmptoV / ajnevgklhtoV
* Of such a character and conduct that accusations are not made against him, and if accusations are made, they are found to be false after fair investigation.
2. TEMPERATE / Vigilant- 1 Timothy 3:2 nhfavlioV
* The word literally means “holding no wine” and refers to a character that is sober, restrained and orderly. Someone who holds himself in control.
3. SELF-CONTROLLED / Temperate Titus 1:8 ejgkrathvV
*Ability to rule over himself –
4. PRUDENT / Sensible / Sober – 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8 swvfrwn
* Wise, discerning, mature and sensible in behavior. * Sound mind and judgment with self-control
5. RESPECTABLE / of good behavior – 1 Timothy 3:2 kovsmioV
* An orderly, well mannered life-style that adorns the teachings of the Bible.
6.GENTLE / patient – 1 Timothy 3:3 ejpieikhvV
*Gentle, gracious and forbearing
II. Does not have Six Undesirable Personal Characteristics
1. NOT GIVEN TO WINE – 1 Timothy 3:3 mh; pavroinon
* One who doesn’t sit too long beside the wine * Not a habitual drinker
2. NOT PUGNACIOUS / no striker – Titus 1:7 mh; plhvkthn
* Not physically or verbally abusive, not a bully
3. NOT IN LOVE WITH MONEY / not greedy of filthy lucre – 1 Timothy 3:3 ajfilavrguroV
NOT FOND OF SORDID GAIN / not given to filthy lucre – Titus 1:7 mh; aijscrokerdh:
* Without affection for money *Not pre-occupied with amassing material possessions
4. NOT CONTENTIOUS / not a brawler – 1 Timothy 3:3 a[macoV
* Not argumentative or quarrelsome
5. NOT QUICK TEMPERED / not soon angry – Titus 1:7 mh; ojrgivlon
*His temper does not have a “short fuse.”
6. NOT SELF-WILLED – Titus 1:7 mh; aujqavdh
* Not a self-pleaser or arrogant * Not demanding to have his own way
* Not stubborn or insensitive to other people and their ideas
III. Has Four Social Qualifications
1. HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE – 1 Timothy 3:2 (Note, this does not exclude single men) mia:V gunaiko;V a[ndra (one woman man)
* A one-woman man – devoted to only one woman
2. MANAGES OWN HOUSEHOLD WELL – 1 Timothy 3:4-5 kalw:V proi>stavmenon
HAVING FAITHFUL CHILDREN NOT ACCUSED OF DISSIPATION OR INSUBORDINATION Titus 1:6 (NKJV)
tevkna e[cwn pistav mh; ejn kathgoriva/ ajswtiva” h] ajnupovtakta
* He makes provision for those over whom he has responsibility and leads them righteously. He keeps the family in order though application of Biblically principles. His children are faithful to his leadership and not accused of debauchery or rebellion
3. HOSPITABLE – 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8 filovxenon
* A lover of strangers, friendly and gracious, with an attitude of sharing blessings
4. GOOD REPUTATION OUTSIDE THE CHURCH – 1 Timothy 3:7 mh; neovfuton
* Also has a good testimony and witness among the unsaved
IV. Has Six Spiritual Qualifications
1. ASPIRES / DESIRES THE OFFICE / WORK OF AN OVERSEER (BISHOP) – 1 Timothy 3:1
ei[ tiV ejpiskoph:V ojrevgetai kalou: e[rgou ejpiqumei:
* He aspires to the office of and desires to do the good works of an Overseer / Elder
2. A LOVER OF WHAT IS GOOD – Titus 1:8 filavgaqoV
* A strong affection to do good, not evil
3. NOT A NEW CONVERT / not a novice – 1 Timothy 3:6 mh; neovfuton
*Has been a Believer long enough to demonstrate maturity in his lifestyle
4. JUST – Titus 1:8 divkaioV
* Fair-minded, impartial, objective. Does not show favoritism.
* Able to make objective judgements based on principle, not prejudice
5. HOLDING FAST THE FAITHFUL WORD . . . ABLE TO EXHORT IN SOUND DOCTRINE AND REFUTE THOSE WHO CONTRADICT – Titus 1:9
* Stable in his faith and obeying the Word of God in all respects
* Is both knowledgeable and wise enough to both accurately teach the Scriptures and encourage to people to live according to them, and to correct and convict those who oppose sound teaching.
6. ABLE TO TEACH – 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9 didaktikovV
* Able to communicate scriptural truth so that others can understand and make application
7. DEVOUT / Holy – Titus 1:8 o{sioV
*Living a life of personal holiness, separated from sin, unto God
Other Scriptures concerning Elders: 1 Thess. 5:12,13; 1 Timothy 5:1,17-19,22; Heb. 13:7,17; 1 Peter 5:1-5
Appendix B – Written Documents
1. Please write out your testimony of salvation.
2. Please describe the ministries you have been involved in past and present and what results you have seen from those ministries. Please also explain what spiritual gifts you believe you may have and how God has used them.
3. Please write out your beliefs concerning each of the following areas:
Bibliology (The Nature of the Bible)
Theology Proper (Doctrine of God the Father)
Christology (Doctrine of God the Son)
Pneumatology (Doctrine of God the Holy Spirit)
Angelology (Doctrine of Angels)
Satanology (Doctrine of Satan)
Demonology (Doctrine of Demons)
Anthropology (Doctrine of Man)
Harmartiology (Doctrine of Sin)
Soteriology (Doctrine of Salvation)
Ecclesiology (Doctrine of the Church)
Eschatology (Doctrine of Last Things)
4. Please describe your general philosophy of ministry in the following areas.
A. What is the mission of the church and how is it to be carried out?
B. What are the ministries of the church and how should each area be carried out?
C. How should the church be structured? How should the church be directed/managed in order to carry out its mission and ministries?
Appendix C – Possible Questions for References
For use when contacting a reference, neighbor, co-worker, etc. Explain who you are and the reason for your call. Inform that the candidate is being considered for a position of leadership in their church and ask if they would mind answering a few questions about the candidate.
Name of Candidate
Date:
Name of person being interviewed
“Your relationship to the candidate?”
“How long have you known the candidate?”
“Did you know the candidate is a professing Christian?”
“Did you know he is a member of Grace Bible Church?”
“Has the candidate ever talked with you about Jesus Christ?”
“Which of the following words would fit the candidate in your opinion?”
Shy Gregarious
Withdrawn Outgoing
Reserved Bold
Kind Mean
Considerate Selfish
Compassionate Callous/unfeeling
Proud Humble
Friendly Contentious
Congenial Opinionated
Harsh Gentle
Respectable Inappropriate
Honorable Devious
Wise Stupid
Discerning Foolish
Patient Rash
Would you consider the candidate a good / fair / mediocre / poor / bad neighbor/co-worker/etc. (according to relationship)?
Describe the candidate’s relationship with his wife?
Does he respect her? Does she respect him?
Is he committed to her alone or does he have an eye for other women?
Describe the candidate’s relationship with his children?
Is he involved with them? Do they respect him? Do they obey him?
Do you like / tolerate / dislike having his children around you?
Appendix D – Study Guide for Oral Evaluation
Oral evaluation will be given in the three areas below. An Elder should have a knowledge base sufficient to enable him to both “exhort in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict” (Titus 1:9). The specific items listed below are basic areas an Elder should be knowledgeable. (This evaluation is looking for a high degree of familiarity, but not 100% accuracy on every item).
1. General Bible Knowledge
A. Names & order of all the books of the Bible
B. Identity of these Bible Characters
Adam, Eve, Cain, Abel, Enoch, Noah, Nimrod, Abraham, Lot, Sarah, Isaac, Esau, Rebekah, Jacob, Joseph, Aaron, Nadab & Abihu, Miriam, Moses, Balaam, Joshua, Deborah, Gideon, Samson, Ruth, Eli, Samuel, Saul, David, Jonathan, Solomon, Joab, Absalom, Jeroboam, Rehoboam, Jezebel, Ahab, Elijah, Elisha, Josiah, Job, Jonah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Shadrack, Meshack, Abednego, Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Ezra, Nehemiah, Joseph, Mary, Simeon, Zacharias, Elizabeth, John the Baptist, Nicodemus, Peter, James, John, Andrew, Nathaniel, Matthew, Luke , Zaccheus, Lazarus, Mary & Martha Mary Magdalene, Caiaphas, Annas, Pilate, Herod, Thomas, Ananias & Sapphira, Gamaliel, Barnabas, James, Cornelius, Stephen, Philip, Agrippa, Paul, Silas, John Mark, Apollos, Timothy, Titus, Michael, Gabriel
C. Theme and importance of the following books. (Outlines of books marked with *)
Genesis*, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, Ezra, Nehemiah, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel*, Hosea, Jonah, Matthew*, Mark, Luke, John*, Acts*, Romans*, 1 Corinthians*, Galatians, Ephesians*, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Timothy, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 1John, Jude, Revelation*
D. Importance of the following chapters / verses.
Genesis 1; 1:31; 2; 3; 3:15; 6-8; 9:6;11; 12:1-3; 18; 19; 22; 37; 50:20
Exodus 3; 3:13-15; 12; 20; 32; 40
Leviticus 10; 16-17; 17:11; 20; 23; 25
Numbers 12; 13-14; 16; 21:4-9; 22-25
Deuteronomy 4:2; 6:1-9; 10:12-16; 13:1-5; 18:14-22; 21:22-23; 27-28; 29:29; 33; 34
Joshua 1; 1:7-9; 2; 6; 7; 9; 10:12-15; 11:23; 24:14,15
Judges 4-5; 6-8; 13-16; 21:25
1 Samuel 1-4; 8-10; 13; 15:20-23; 16; 17; 18; 24; 28; 31
2 Samuel 6; 7; 7:8-16; 11; 12; 13-20; 24; 24:24
1 Kings 3; 8; 18; 21
2 Kings 2; 5; 17; 18; 22-23; 24-25
Ezra 1; 3; 10
Nehemiah 1-2; 3-7; 8:4-8
Job 1-2, 3-37; 13:15-16; 14:14-15; 19:25-27; 38-41; 42
Psalms 1; 2; 8; 14; 15; 19; 22; 23; 32; 51; 73; 90; 100; 119; 127; 139; 150
Proverbs 1:1-6, 7; 3:3-8; 5:15-23; 6:16-19; 31:10-31
Ecclesiastes 1; 2; 12:11-14
Isaiah 1:18; 6; 7:14; 9:6; 40; 53; 55; 64:6; 66
Jeremiah 1:4-10; 17:9-10 25; 29:10-14; 31; 52
Lamentations 3:22-23
Ezekiel 1; 10; 37; 38-39; 40-48
Daniel 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 9:24-27; 10-12; 12:1-2
Joel 2:28-32
Micah 5:2
Habakkuk 3:16-19
Zechariah 14
Matthew 1; 4; 5-7; 5:1-16,17-20; 6:9-15; 7:15-23; 8-9; 12; 13; 16:18; 18:15-20, 21-35; 19:4-9; 21:1-11; 23; 24-25; 25:31-46; 26; 27; 28; 28:18-20
Mark 10:45
Luke 5:32
John 1:1-5,12-13,14; 2; 3:1-21; 4:21-24; 5:18-47; 6:1-25; 8:31-32; 10; 11; 13; 14-16; 14:1-4,6; 16:7-15; 17; 18-19; 20
Acts 1; 1:8; 2; 5:1-3; 6:1-6; 8:14-17; 9; 10; 13; 15; 20:28-30
Romans 1; 1:16,17; 2; 3; 3:20, 23; 4; 5; 6; 6:23; 7; 8; 8:1,28,29-30,35-39; 9-11; 10:9-10; 12; 12:1-2; 13; 14
1 Corinthians 1; 2:12-16; 3:11-15; 5; 6; 6:12; 7; 8-9; 10:11,12-13; 11; 12-14; 15
2 Corinthians 5:10,17-20; 9:6-15; 12:7-10; 13:5
Galatians 3:23-29; 5; 5:1,22-23; 6:1-5, 6-10
Ephesians 1:3-14; 2:1-10; 4; 4:11-13; 5; 5:18, 22-33; 6; 6:1-3, 10-18
Philippians 1:21-24; 2:1-4, 5-11; 4:4-7, 8-9, 10-13.
Colossians 1:13-18; 2:16-17; 3;
1 Thessalonians 4:3-8; 13-18; 5:1-3
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:1-12
1 Timothy 2:9-15; 3:1-13; 4:1-4; 5
2 Timothy 2:2, 14-16; 3:16-17; 4:1-5
Titus 1:5-9; 3:5
Hebrews 1; 4:12, 14-16; 6:1-8; 10; 11; 12:1-3, 4-11; 13:2,4,5,15-16,17
James 1; 1:2-4; 13-14, 2:14-26; 3:1,2-12; 4; 4:1-3, 6-7; 5:14-16
1 Peter 1:14-16, 18-19, 2:11-12, 13-17, 24; 3:1-7,15,18; 5:1-4, 5-7, 8-9
2 Peter 1; 1:3, 20-21; 2; 3:3-7,8-9, 10-15
1 John 1:5-10; 2:1-6, 15-17; 18-19; 27; 3:2, 4-10, 15, 16-18; 4:1-3, 18, 20; 5:10-13, 14-15
Revelation 2-3; 4; 7:4-8; 12; 19:7-10, 11-21; 20; 21-22
2. Systematic Theology
Be able to explain & defend following doctrines and the church’s Statement of Faith. (Some of this will overlap with Practical Theology. Evaluation in this area is looking for general knowledge and ability to “exhort” and “refute” and not theological treatises on each subject)
A. Bibliology
1) Revelation: General and Specific
2) Inspiration: Verbal, Plenary
3) Authority of Scripture: Inerrancy; Infallibility
4) Illumination: Saved & unsaved
B. Theology Proper
1) Proof of God
2) Attributes – Communicable & Incommunicable
3) The Trinity – Unity and Plurality
4) God The Father
5) God the Son (Christology)
Nature – Deity, Humanity, Hypostatic Union
Incarnation
The Kenosis
Virgin Birth
Temptation & Impeccability
Transfiguration
Miracles
Resurrection
Ascension
Mediatorial Work
Second Coming
6) God the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology)
Nature – deity & attributes
Ministry to Believers – Baptism, Filling, Indwelling, Sealing
Ministry to unbelievers
Spiritual Gifts
Ministry in the Old Testament vs. The New Testament
C. Anthropology
1) Origin & nature
2) State of innocence
3) Original Sin – the Fall
4) Personal Sin
5) Punishment
D. Angelology
Ministry of angels
Satanology – His sin, character, methods and future
Demonology
E. Soteriology
1) The Savior – Offices, Sufferings & Work of Christ
2) Terminology – be able to define the following terms:
Atonement, Depravity, Expiation, Forgiveness, Grace, Guilt, Imputation, Justification, Propitiation, Reconciliation, Redemption, Regeneration, Sacrifice, Vicarious Substitution.
3) Election
Predestination, Man’s “free” will
Terms: Calling, drawing, foreknowledge, chosen
4) Conditions of Salvation
Terminology: believe, repent, confess, Lordship of Christ
5) Sanctification
New Birth
Joint Heirship with Christ
Position vs Practice
Eternal Security
Ultimate Glorification
6) Relationship of the Law and Grace
F. Ecclesiology
1) Christ & the Church
2) Church vs. Israel
3) Church Government – Autonomy, Structure, Officers, Membership
4) Church Ordinances:
Believers Baptism by Immersion
The Lord’s Supper
5) Duties of Members –
Assembly, Giving of time, talent & wealth
6) Relationship to the World
Separation from apostasy, worldliness & sinful practices
Evangelism
Civil Government: Role of Government; Extent of Obedience
G. Eschatology
The Rapture of the Church
Second Coming of Christ
Millennial reign of Christ
The Resurrection of the dead / Final judgement
The Eternal State / Heaven & Hell
3. Practical Theology (Be able to discuss the following areas using Biblical approaches)
A. Biblical hermeneutics (How to study & interpret the Bible)
B. Church Government: Structure & Role of Officers: Elders, Deacons, Deaconess
C. Church Discipline
D. “Baby Dedications” (Why we do not baptize infants)
E. Role of Women in the Church
F. Biblical Concept of Missions
Local & Foreign, Sending process, Evangelism,
Parachurch vs. Local Church
G. Priorities of Pastoral Ministry
H. Stewardship (Finances – Church & Personal)
I. Lawsuits
J. Divorce & Remarriage
K. Liberty in Christ vs. either Legalism or License
L. Manifestations of True Salvation / false professions
M. Social Issues
1) Abortion
2) Homosexuality
3) Political Activism
4) Caring for the “poor”
5) Alcohol & Drugs
6) Smoking
7) Gambling
Appendix D – Recommended Reading & Resources (Prepared 1996)
Bible Survey / General Commentaries
Talk Thru the Bible, Bruce Wilkinson & Kenneth Boa.
Thomas Nelson, 1993
The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Old Testament, John f.
Walvoord & Roy B. Zuck, ed. Victor Books, 1985.
The Bible Knowledge Commentary, New Testament, John
f. Walvoord & Roy B. Zuck, ed. Victor Books, 1983.
Bible Backgrounds / Customs
Manners & Customs in the Bible, Victor H. Matthews.
Hendrickson Publishers, 1988.
Sketches of Jewish Social Life, Alfred Edersheim.
Eerdmans Publishing, 1979.
How to Study the Bible
First Hand Joy, Rick Yohn. NavPress, 1982.
Studying, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible, Walter Henrichsen & Gayle Jackson. Zondervan Publishing, 1990.
Systematic Theology
Practical Christian Theology, Floyd H. Barackman. Kregel Publications, 1992.
God the Father
The Knowledge of the Holy, A. W. Tozer. Harper & Row Publishers, 1961
Knowing God, J.I. Packer. InterVarsity Press, 1973
God the Son, Jesus Christ – see Salvation
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit & His Gifts, J. Oswald Sanders.
Lamplighter Books, 1970.
Angels / Demons / Satan
Angels: Elect & Evil, C. Fred Dickason. Moody Press, 1975.
Unmasking Satan, Richard Mayhue. Victor Books, 1988
Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices, Thomas
Brooks. Banner of Truth Trust, 1652/1984.
Salvation
The Gospel According to Jesus, John F, MacArthur.
Faith Works: The Gospel According to the Apostles,
John F. MacArthur. Word Publishing, 1993.
Evangelism & the Sovereignty of God, J.I. Packer. IVP, 1961
The Nature of the Church
The Church; The Body of Christ, John F. MacArthur, Jr. Zondervan, 1973
Biblical Eldership, Alexander Strauch. Lewis & Roth
Publishers, 1995
God’s Plan for the Future
The Meaning of the Millennium, Robert G. Clouse, ed. IVP, 1977
The Rapture: Pre, Mid, or Post-Tribulational, Richard Reiter, ed. Zondervan, 1984
Apologetics
Evidence That Demands a Verdict, Josh McDowell.
Campus Crusade for Christ, 1972
God Doesn’t Believe in Atheists, Ray Comfort.
Bridge Publishing, 1993
Scientific Creationism, Henry Morris. Creation-Life
Publishers, 1974
Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis, Barbour & Co., (The Christian Library), 1952
The Kingdom of the Cults, Walter Martin. Bethany House Publishers, 1965/1997
Ministry & Church Issues
Jesus Christ Disciple Maker, Bill Hull. Fleming H. Revell, 1990.
Competent to Counsel, Jay Adams. Zondervan Publishing, 1986
Charismatic Chaos, John F. MacArthur Jr., Zondervan Publishing, 1992
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage in the Bible, Jay Adams. Zondervan, 1980
Social Issues
Abortion: Whatever Happened to the Human Race, Francis A. Shaeffer & C. Everett Koop. Flemming H. Revell Company, 1979
Pornography: The Mind Polluters, Jerry R. Kirk. Thomas Nelson, 1985
Welfare: The Tragedy of American Compassion, Marvin Olasky. Regnery Publishing, 1992
Homosexuality: The Crises of Homosexuality, J. Isamu Yamamoto, ed., Victor Books, 1990
Politics:
Devotional / Inspirational / Discipleship Tools
One-to-One Discipleship, Al & Lorraine Broom. Multiplication Ministries, 1983
The Pursuit of Holiness, Jerry Bridges. NavPress 1978
Tender Warrior, Stu Webber. Multnomah Books, 1993
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, Donald S. Whitney. NavPress, 1991
Appendix F – Plurality of Elders
The following Scriptures make is clear that the New Testament pattern for local churches is to have a plurality of godly men usually referred to as Elders (presbuvteroi / presbuteroi) leading them. An elder may also be referred to as an Overseer / Bishop (eJpiskopoV / episkopos) or a pastor / shepherd (poimh:n / poim n).
*Barnabas and Saul gave their offering for Judea’s poor to the elders (Acts 11:30)
* The elders at Jerusalem united with the apostles to deliberate over doctrinal controversy (Acts 15:2, 4, 6, 22, 23)
* The Biblical record reveals oversight be the plurality of elders in the churches of Derbe, Lystra, Iconium , and Anitoch (Acts 14:23); in the church at Ephesus (Acts 20:17; 1 Timothy 3:17; 5:17-25); the church at Philippi (Philippians 1:1); the churches on the island of Crete (Titus 1:5); and according to Peter, the churches in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (1 Peter 1:1; 5:1).
* Both the apostles Paul and Peter directly charged the elders of the church to pastor (Shepherd) and oversee the local congregation (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1,2).
*At both the beginning ad end of Paul’s ministry, he appointed a plurality of elders to care for the churches he planted (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5). According to the Titus 1:5 passage, Paul did not consider a church to be fully developed until it had functioning, qualified elders.
* Paul calls on the congregation to render double honor to the elders who “rule ” the church well, especially the elders who work hard at “preaching and teaching.” This honor includes financial help (1 Timothy 5:17,18).
* Paul states that the elders are the stewards, or household managers, of the local assemble (Titus 1:7)
* Paul states that the elders are the church’s overseers (Acts 20:28; Philippians 1:1).
* The elders are solemnly charged to protect the church from false teachers (Acts 20:28-31; Titus 1:9-11).
Appendix G – The Duties of Elders
Six Greek words are used to refer to the men that serve as elders / bishops / pastors.
ejpiskopevw (Episkopeo) – Verb meaning “to oversee”
ejpivskopoV (Episkopos) – Masculine Noun meaning “Bishop,” “Overseer”
ejpiskophv (Episkopa) – Feminine noun meaning “Office,” “Overseership”
presbuvteroV (Presbuteros) – Noun meaning” Presbyter,” “Elder” (office), “Elder” (age).
poimaivnw (Poimaino) – Verb meaning “to shepherd, feed, rule”
poimhvn (Poiman) – Noun meaning “Shepherd,” “Pastor”
Among the responsibilities that belong to Elders are the following:
*Give oversight to \ rule \ administrate the flock. (Lead, guide, set the direction, care for). This is to be done willingly, not by constraint and with with eagerness, not for gaining wealth at the expense of the sheep – Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 3:5; 5:17; 1 Peter 5:2;
*Feed / Shepherd the flock of God (Teach the Word) – Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1; 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:17 Ephesians 4:11
*Settle matters of Doctrine (By teaching & refuting) – Acts 15:2f; Titus 1:8-11
*Protect the flock from false teachers – Acts 20:28-30
*Determine matters of Church Policy – Acts 15:22f
*Train people to use their gifts in ministry in the body – Ephesians 4:11,12f
*Set a godly example for all. (Live in accordance with all Scriptural commands, principles & precepts) – 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:2-3
*Pray over the sick – James 5:14
*Ordain others – 1 Timothy 4:14
*Receive financial contributions – Acts 11:30
*Devote themselves primarily to the ministry of prayer & the Word Acts 6:2,4 (Though this verse specifically refers to the apostles), including teaching and matters of doctrine – 1 Timothy 5:17
*Give direction to others in handling minor matters – Acts 6:1,3,6 (Though this specifically refers to the apostles)