How can we "appoint elders" in our church today, following Titus 1:5? Grounding Our Practice in Titus 1:5 “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what was lacking and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.” Paul’s instruction was not temporary or cultural; it remains the blueprint for local churches. An “elder” (presbyteros) is also called “overseer” (episkopos) and “shepherd” (poimēn, pastor) in Scripture—different words describing the same office (Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1-2). Why Elders Matter • They guard the flock from false doctrine (Titus 1:9). • They shepherd, not as dictators but as examples (1 Peter 5:2-3). • They share the leadership load so ministry flourishes (Acts 20:28). Step-by-Step: Appointing Elders Today 1. Recognize the Divine Mandate • Elders are not optional; the Lord commands their appointment (Titus 1:5). • The church discerns and obeys, trusting God’s wisdom over human preference. 2. Examine Scriptural Qualifications Combine Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7: • Above reproach—nothing that discredits the gospel. • Husband of one wife—sexually faithful and morally pure. • Children who believe and are orderly—his home shows his leadership. • Not self-willed, quick-tempered, addicted to wine, violent, or greedy. • Hospitable, lover of good, sensible, just, holy, self-controlled. • Holds firmly to the trustworthy word, able to exhort and refute error. 3. Identify Potential Candidates • Look for men already modeling these traits informally—serving, teaching, caring. • Let time test character (1 Timothy 5:22: “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands”). 4. Seek Congregational Affirmation • Leaders present candidates; the body confirms by observable fruit (Acts 6:3-6 sets the pattern of congregational involvement). • Unity is vital; unresolved objections must be addressed biblically (Matthew 18:15-17). 5. Commission with Prayer and Fasting • Follow Acts 14:23—“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in every church, and with prayer and fasting…” • Lay hands on the men, symbolizing endorsement and impartation (1 Timothy 4:14). 6. Outline Responsibilities and Authority • Preach/teach sound doctrine (2 Timothy 4:2). • Shepherd willingly, not for gain (1 Peter 5:2). • Exercise oversight together as a plurality, preventing lopsided power. 7. Provide Ongoing Accountability • Elders answer to Christ the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4) and to one another (Galatians 6:1). • The church is commanded to honor faithful elders yet rebuke persistent sin publicly if necessary (1 Timothy 5:17-20). Practical Helps for Modern Churches • Develop a written elder qualification checklist drawn directly from the passages above. • Offer training in doctrine, pastoral care, and conflict resolution. • Rotate existing elders through sabbaticals to stay fresh and humble. • Maintain transparent financial and decision-making processes. The Goal: Healthy, Scripture-Rooted Leadership When we appoint elders exactly as Scripture directs, Christ’s design for His church is honored, believers are protected, and the gospel advances with clarity and power. |
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