This lesson considers what an elder's work really is in the church by examining the three Greek words used to describe this "office."

Servant Leaders: The Role, Function, or Work of Elders

Three Words Emphasizing Roles (See Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1-5)

• PRESBUTEROS: Presbyter or Elder
  • Proverbs 31:23; Ruth 4:1-12
• EPISKOPOS: Bishop or Overseer
  • Genesis 39:4-5
• POIMEN: Pastor or Shepherd
  • John 10; Psalm 23

I. Elder--WISDOM

• Peacemakers and Decision-makers—They use sound judgment to make decisions and settle conflict according to the Word of God and experience.
  • Acts 15:6-11

II. Overseer--AUTHORITY

• Stewards or Superintendents—They are entrusted by God with this work, and given the authority from Him to carry it out.
  • Hebrews 13:7—Does not “Lord it over” the flock as a “master” or “dictator.”
  • 3 John 9-11

III. Shepherd--SERVICE

• Servants and Teachers–They care for, lead, and instruct the flock.
• 1 Peter 5:1-5; John 10:1-14; John 13:12-17
• 1 Thessalonians 5:12-14; Ephesians 4:11
• Acts 20:29-30; Titus 1:10-11
• Should we call them “Elders” or “Shepherds?”

IV. The Roles in Action and Practicality

• Elders are not perfect.
• The role of the elder focuses on the SPIRITUAL, but they are accountable for the physical, too.
• Activities associated with “the elders?”
• Other activities less commonly considered…
• Elders, Overseers, Shepherds should…
  • –Take Heed to themselves (Acts 20:28)
  • –Take Heed to/Shepherd the Flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2)
  • –Teach (Eph. 4:12)
  • –Admonish (1 Thess. 5:12)
  • –Labor among the brethren (1 Thess. 5:12-13)
  • –Convict those who contradict (Titus 1:9)
  • –Pray for the sick (James 5:14)
  • –Be examples (1 Peter 5:3)
  • –Send forth (1 Tim. 4:14)
  • –Oversee physical gifts or finances (Acts 11:27-30)
  • –Watch for wolves (Acts 20:29)
  • –Support the weak (Acts 20:35)
  • –Stop mouths of idle talkers/deceivers (Titus 1:10-11)
  • –Watch for souls (Heb. 13:17)
  • –Give an account to God for their oversight (Heb. 13:17)
  • –Rule (1 Timothy 5:17), but not as Lords (1 Peter 5:3)