From time to time we need to be reminded of the importance of God’s plan for congregations. An aspect of that plan we currently do not have is an eldership. The reason for this is irrelevant to the need. We need elders because:
The word bishop (episkopos) means overseer (cf. 1 Timothy 3:1). In God’s plan those who are engaged in this work have the large responsibility of overseeing the flock among them. Without an elder, such oversight is lacking.
The word elder (presbuteros) indicates an older man (cf. 1 Peter 5:1). This accords with the qualifications. Age enables a man with sufficient wisdom and experience to guide the flock. Young men may not make wise decisions, and are not given this position in the Lord’s house.
The word pastor (poimen) means a shepherd (cf. Acts 20:28). It is the work of feeding and protecting the sheep. These two things make up much of the elder’s work. The feeding is done through the word, and the protection is against false influences and evil efforts to damage the congregation. Paul warned the elders of the Ephesian church, “savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock…” (Acts 20:29). Without elders, God’s flock is vulnerable.
Any congregation that is bereft of elders is vulnerable, and should have as a primary intent the appointment of qualified men.
