1. Ministerial Association of the General Conference
ELDER’S TRAINING SEMINAR
Based on the Elder’s Handbook
Ministerial Association of the General Conference

2. The Elder’s Call and Qualification
Chapter 2 – Part 1

3. Calling and Election Called by God
The call to be an elder is a call from God
Elders who realize that their calling comes first
from God, will most appreciate the importance and seriousness of their leadership responsibility.

4. Calling and Election Elected by congregation
Elders should not be elected because they already hold some position of importance in the community, or because they have been successful in business, or are wealthy.

5. Calling and Election Elected by congregation
They have no official position or authority in the church unless they have also been elected by the congregation.

6. Elder’s job description
In the New Testament
Appointed in every congregation.
Highly respected.
They gave leadership in prayer, and anointed the sick.

7. Elder’s job description
In the New Testament
They carried significant leadership and
administrative responsibilities.
They were to be shepherds, overseers, and examples.
Jesus said to Peter, “Shepherd my sheep...”

8. Job Description Spiritual Leadership
Should be respected by their congregation.
Be able to speak well.
Have consecrated lives.
Have spiritual leadership ability.

9. Job Description General oversight, along with the Pastor
Keep a watchful eye over each activity and department.
Be involved in planning, staffing, training, and
guiding the entire church program.

10. Job Description General oversight, along with the Pastor
Demonstrate skills in worship leadership.
At the pastor’s request, or in his absence, serve
as chair of board and at business meetings.
Elders should be committed to outreach and
have a clear vision of the church’s mission.

11. Elder’s job description
Nurture
Elders are not only overseers, but shepherds.
Prepare new members for baptism.
Provide the special love and nurture new members need.
Help new members make firm friendships within the church.

12. Elder’s job description
Small Churches
Take responsibility for almost all the detailed administration of the church.
Plan to preach often.
Plan to lead out in worship service, including Communion.
Call and chair the church board or business meeting in the pastor’s absence.

13. Elder’s job description
Small Churches
Organize and participate in the visitation of members.
Oversee the evangelistic plans for the church.
Train the congregation in stewardship.
Give general oversight to church finances.

14. Elder’s job description
Large Churches
Team of Elders and the first elder.
Board of Elders.
III. Serve as members of the church board.