The Bible’s teaching on the subject of the office of Elder is found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Peter 5:1-3. These Scriptures show that Elders serve by leading and that their responsibilities involve the spiritual oversight of the congregation.
The Scriptures teach that a plurality of Elders governed individual New Testament churches, in Acts 14:23, 20:28, Titus 1:5 and Philippians 1:1. There is no mention of any congregation that features a stand-alone pastor or leader. A plurality of godly Elders, exercising their individual giftedness, is what most closely aligns with the Scripture’s teaching, and that wisdom is found in a multitude of godly counselors (Proverbs 11:14, 12:15, 15:22, 19:20 and 24:6). Furthermore, all elders share the same calling and godly characteristics (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). And beyond that, pastors, elders and shepherds are different roles but the same office (1 Peter 5:1, 2).
However, while elders share the same authority and position in the church, not all elders will necessarily bear the same influence. The variation in the amount of influence comes from the public nature of their ministry or other factors like ministry experience (1 Timothy 5:17). This enhanced platform may cause some to stand out and create environments for mutual deference and humility.
The elders’ primary responsibilities include:
Doctrine – Ensuring that the doctrine of the church is biblical. All doctrinal issues in the church will be settled by the Elder Board.
Direction – Ensuring that the direction of the church is consistent with The Grove Bible Chapel’s mission statement and core values.
Discipline – Administering, in love and humility, the process of church discipline, as outlined in Matthew 18:15-20, Galatians 6:1-4, Titus 3:10, 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15, 1 Timothy 5:17-25, 1 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11 and Romans 16:17.
Deacons are qualified men and women (1 Timothy 3:8–13) appointed and set apart by the Elders to assist in ministering to the poor and needy in the church, maintaining the facility, and carrying out practical ministry functions. This includes, but is not limited to, oversight and direction in matters such as benevolence, meals, moving support, hospital visits, etc.
To contact the deacons, email info@thegrovetampa.org