The article encourages qualified ministerial servants to aspire to serve as elders, emphasizing that this role involves leading in preaching, shepherding, and teaching while meeting the high Scriptural standards outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. It highlights the importance of developing a fine reputation, setting a good example as a family head, and being willing to serve the congregation selflessly.

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THE WORK OF AN ELDER

• An elder takes the lead in preaching, shepherding, and teaching, building up the congregation through word and example.
• The Bible refers to hardworking elders as “gifts in men” (Ephesians 4:8).

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QUALIFYING TO SERVE AS AN ELDER

• Unlike secular jobs, qualifying as an elder requires meeting the Scriptural qualifications listed at 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
• These qualifications include being irreprehensible, sound in mind, moderate, hospitable, and having a good reputation both within and outside the congregation.

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• To qualify as an elder, you must be “irreprehensible”, having a good reputation due to above-reproach conduct.
• You must also have “a fine testimony from outsiders”, ensuring that even unbelievers respect your honesty and conduct.
• Being a “lover of goodness” involves seeing, appreciating, and commending the good in others and going beyond what is required to do good for them.
• Hospitality is vital, showing kindness to all, including strangers, and sharing resources generously (Hebrews 13:2, 16).
• Not a lover of money means prioritizing Kingdom interests over material gain (Matthew 6:33).
• Elders must be moderate in habits and self-controlled, avoiding extremes in lifestyle, dress, and behavior (James 4:4).

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SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE AS A FAMILY HEAD

• Elders must preside over their households “in a fine manner,” taking the lead in worship and showing love and responsibility.
• Fathers must train their children to be obedient, respectful, and live by Bible principles, guiding them toward baptism.
• If a child commits serious sin due to the father’s negligence, it may affect the father’s qualification to serve.

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• A reasonable elder promotes peace, listens to others, and supports decisions that align with Bible principles (Proverbs 15:22).
• Elders are “not self-willed” or quick-tempered but are gentle, tactful, and peaceable, taking the initiative to resolve conflicts (James 3:17, 18).
• Elders must not be newly converted but should demonstrate spiritual maturity and humility, waiting on Jehovah for assignments.
• Being “qualified to teach” requires skillful teaching, giving sound counsel, and reaching listeners’ hearts effectively through diligent study of God’s Word.

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CONCLUSION

• Reaching out to serve as an elder is truly a “fine work” that requires dedication, spiritual maturity, and a desire to help others. By meeting these qualifications, brothers can contribute to the spiritual health of the congregation and honor Jehovah.

Thank you for reading,
-Soli Jehova Gloria (1 Corinthians 10:31)