In the Presbyterian Church there are two types of officers in the Church: elders and deacons. And within the office of elder are the two kinds: teaching elders (commonly referred to as ministers or preachers) and ruling elders. The elders jointly are responsible for the government and spiritual oversight of the church, including teaching. In conformity to Scripture, the office of elder is open to men only.

The Bible requires the elders to watch diligently over the flock committed to their charge, to promote sound belief and godly living. The Elders exercise government and discipline, and take oversight of the spiritual interests of the particular church. They visit the people in their homes, especially the sick. They instruct seekers, comfort those who are mourning, and nourish and guard the children of the church. They endeavor to set a worthy example to the flock entrusted to their care by their zeal to evangelize the unconverted and make disciples. They pray with and for the people, and are careful and diligent in seeking the fruit of the preached Word among the flock.

This office is a great privilege and responsibility. Our elders will one day give an account of their governance to the Almighty.

The Bible is clear about the qualifications for an elder. The apostle Paul says in 1 Timothy 3:2-7 that an elder "must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."

In Titus 1:6-9 he adds that an elder must be "above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion. For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict."

Thus, to summarize, the Bible specifies godly Christian character, family spiritual leadership, and ability to teach the truth of the Word as indispensable qualifications for the eldership.

So, we prepare to vote by prayerfully considering the nominees in light of the scriptural qualifications and responsibilities. Then we ask ourselves two questions: (1) Does this brother meet the requirements of Scripture for this high office? and (2) Does he evidence the abilities to perform the duties of the office?

We hope that you will use this booklet to better prepare for the upcoming election of officers. Remember, your participation in the election of church officers is one the greatest privileges and responsibilities of your church membership at First Presbyterian Church. One of the great strengths of First Presbyterian Church down through the years has been the Christian character and wisdom of its officers. May our God be gracious to grant us his favor again in providing a new generation of godly officers.