Describe the perfect "elder"

[zoonance]

Names are being brought up for consideration for being recognized as an elder in our congregation.  What would the perfect elder look like?

[Jaime]

Names are being brought up for consideration for being recognized as an elder in our congregation.  What would the perfect elder look like?

I don't think there is any such animal.

[walker starr]

   He'd .look like Jaime. lol

[zoonance]

OK, what would a loser look like?   (one you would not consider true to the 'office')

[zoonance]

OK, what would a loser look like?   (one you would not consider true to the 'office')

I am not talking about perfection, but a man that clearly fits the biblical picture of Godly leadership.  Paul wanted to appoint _____ as "qualified" men.  What do they look like?

[Snargles]

Old enough to have experience and have gained the trust of the congregation but not so old as to be out of touch with the real world.

Somebody you could trust enough to tell that your son has come out, you drink and watch porno on the weekends or that you and your wife aren't getting along.

Able to teach a class but not necessarily able to preach.

Personally, I don't believe Paul's instructions to Timothy and Titus all apply to us today but since most people do believe it: married to one woman at a time (death of a first spouse allowed but not divorce [even permissible divorce would muddy the waters]) with some children who aren't heathens (unbaptized minors who are obedient to their parents qualify).

Someone who doesn't have a bad reputation in the community (no overzealous Christians who stand on a soap box in front of the courthouse).

Someone who wears a coat and tie (at least a tie) to Sunday morning services. A personal thing with me but I get tired of no one dressing up anymore.

Someone who you have been able to count on to fill in when there has been a last minute need for scripture reader, pray-er, announcer or LS guy (doesn't have to be able to lead singing but should know his way around 4 part harmony).

Over 6 feet tall, under 200 pounds, dashingly handsome (no wait, that's me... well 2 out of 3).

A guy you would go to for advice on scripture or life even if he wasn't an elder. David Lipscomb said all congregations have elders even if they don't have the title. They are the men you go to for help.

[zoonance]

It would seem that, except for snargles, we don't know really do we?

[Snargles]

                                                                       
                                                                               

[Bon Voyage]

CofC elders = Baptist deacons.   

[Snargles]

CofC elders = Baptist deacons.   

Baptist deacons do some work.

CoC elders tell others what work to do    

[Jimbob]

Names are being brought up for consideration for being recognized as an elder in our congregation.  What would the perfect elder look like?

More laugh lines than worry lines, no polyester suits....wait, I think I misunderstood there for a second.

[HRoberson]

Me.

No, I suspect perfect wouldn't quite match that answer.

So...elders are to ensure the maturity and safety of the congregation, and to ensure the passing on of the faith (the real core faith, not denominational doctrine). "Administrative elder" is an oxymoron and demonstrates a significant misunderstanding of the concept.

An elder should reflect Jesus in his life and in the ways he interacts with people and congregational members.

Oddly enough, a perfect elder need not be perfect, but open and accessible for discussion, instruction, and reproof when needed.

An elder should have a sufficient grasp of and commitment to the faith that he can explain it's core elements to others, and he should see the mission of the church in the world as the work of God - and want it done.

He should continue to learn, read, and reflect on the faith, the life of the community, and himself.

[zoonance]

thanks HR

[Snargles]

Zoo, I suspect you have given more thought to this than the rest of us. What are you looking for in an elder?

[walker starr]

   Of all the men that I have observed that comes anywhere qualifiying
   it would be Larry2 .  He knows the bible.  He walks with JESUS.  He
   is a peacemaker.  He greets the newcomers and makes them feel welcome.
   His prayers are usually prayed at the very first request of those needing
   prayer.  I can't think of anyone more suited for that role.  Larry is has the qualities
   that  an elder should have.  My earlier post was done in fun but this one is
   totally serious.