The Role of Elders
The pattern of leadership throughout the New Testament is of a plurality of elders exercising spiritual authority within a church body.
- Be Shepherds: While elders are empowered with great authority, they are entrusted with an even greater responsibility-shepherding God's flock.
- Be Servants: Jesus is clear that "up is down" on the Kingdom organizational chart. The greatest are called to be "least" and the leaders to be "servants of all."
- Be Overseers: The terms "elder" and "bishop" both refer to those who bring "oversight" to the body, and are accountable to God for the church.
- Be Examples: The elders of a church are held to a higher standard, and are to model what a whole-hearted pursuit of Christ and the Kingdom is like.
Gifts of Elders: All spiritual gifts are needed within the body, but there are certain gifts needed on an elder team for it to serve the body. (e.g. wisdom, discernment, leadership, shepherding, teaching, faith and intercession)
Character of Elders: The character of elders is of utmost importance to Christ and his church. The New Testament lists the following character traits.
- Christ-like Character: Elders must have an authentic walk with Christ that results in a life that honors Him and His church. (1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:6)
- Faithful Spouse: Elders (if married) must be a faithful spouse, with a marriage that reflects the relationship of Christ to His church. (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6)
- Relationally Mature: Elders must treat people with honor, not being quick-tempered or argumentative, but gentle and loving. (1 Timothy 3:2-3; Titus 1:7-8)
- Self-Controlled: Elders must not be addicted to sinful or harmful behaviors, or given to excess in their lives. (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7-8)
- Well Respected: Elders must be well respected inside and outside the church by how they conduct their family and business. (1 Timothy 3:4-7, Titus 1:6)
- Spiritual Depth: Elders must have a history of spiritual maturity, with the biblical knowledge to teach and bring correction. (1 Timothy 3:2, 6; Titus 1:9)
Selection of Elders: Each year, the elders will engage in a review process where each member must be unanimously affirmed by the other members of the team. If there is a need for more elders, the people of BridgeWay will be asked to recommend those they feel qualified. Following interviews with candidates and their spouses, the Elder Team will pray and fast and then present the names of those they believe God has called to serve. The body will have a period of three weeks to give specific feedback on those presented by the Elder Team.