2. In this concluding lesson before we begin the selection process, there are few matters which remain. The Elder’s Wife The Elder’s Wife The Difference Between Selecting and Appointing Elders The Difference Between Selecting and Appointing Elders Possible Processes of Selection Possible Processes of Selection

3. The Elder’s Wife 1Tim.3:11 lists what I believe to be qualifications for the wife of an Elder or a Deacon: “Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things.” Considerable disparity exists as to exactly what this verse means- what follows is what I (PCS) think. Considerable disparity exists as to exactly what this verse means- what follows is what I (PCS) think.

4. “ Why is this not just a Deacon’s Wife, or even a Deaconess?” Some believe it to be either of these- I don’t. First, what sense would it make for there to be qualifications for a Deacon’s Wife, but none for the Elder’s Wife? None. Second, it doesn’t fit with 1Tim.2:12 and Acts 6:3b. The first forbids women from “exercising authority over a man” in the church; the second makes it clear that deacons have “charge” over the area to which they are assigned. (see also 1Tim.3:12)

5. So what does 1Tim.3:11 mean? The word translated as “women” (NASV) is a generic term which means a female. Thus it can refer to simply a woman, or a wife. For the reasons previously given, I think wife/wives are intended. “If so, why does it say ‘likewise’ ?” >Note v.4 > v.8 > v.11. >The wives of the Elders and Deacons should likewise be “dignified” just as required of their husbands!

6. So what does 1Tim.3:11 mean? For any man to be fit to serve in the capacity of Shepherd or Deacon, his wife must be of a character and quality so as to enable his service, rather than to hinder it. Therefore, her qualifications are given: >dignified (commanding respect) >not a malicious gossip (no other kind) >temperate (exercising self-control) >faithful in all things. (to God and family)

7. The Difference between Selecting and Appointing Elders Selecting is the process of choosing based upon the qualifications, cf. Acts 6:3a,5a Appointing is the act of official ordination, cf. Acts 6:3b,6. Point? >The congregation selected the men based upon the qualifications given. >Then, the Twelve Apostles appointed those who had been selected.

8. “But, wait a minute….” “these were Deacons, not Elders. Elders were appointed by Paul and Barnabas (Acts 14:23), Timothy (1Tim.3:1ff), & Titus (Titus 1:5).” Very True. Questions: -Any of those men around now? (1Cor.13:10) -Does God still expect us to have Elders? -So then, men without miraculous spiritual gifts can still read & understand the qualifications given by the Spirit and select men who meet them! cf. Eph.3:3-5

9. “So, should the Elders we already have select and appoint additional Elders?” I suppose they could without harm to the text because no direct process is given. But consider this: -In Acts 6, when there was a need for deacons, why didn’t the Twelve Apostles select them? -Surely they were more qualified to choose- but they didn’t. They gave the qualifications and told the people to “select from among you”. Why?

10. “So, should the Elders we already have select and appoint additional Elders?” My answer is that these men were going to serve the congregation- not the Apostles. Therefore it was important that the Congregation select those who would serve. It was not a top down decision. The congregation was required to select the men themselves. This would involve the congregation and help to eliminate future complaints and problems when these men administered their duties, cf. Acts 6:1.

11. Now... Isn’t that similarly a good reason for a congregation today to “select from among you” those to whom they will be required to submit? “Does this eliminate current Elders from the process?” Let me ask a question: What do you think the Apostles would have done if the congregation in Jerusalem had selected men who did not meet the qualifications given through the Spirit? They would have intervened. And so should current Elders today in similar cases!

12. “How then do we go about selecting qualified men to serve us in this capacity?” First, pray for understanding and guidance, Acts 1:24. Second, do your best to comprehend the qualifications and what they mean. Third, begin to look out among yourselves for men who meet the qualifications and desire the office. “But how do we do select them?” “What process do we use?” Understand that no specific process is given- but we must meet the principles.

13. Suggestions: (not a complete list) Everyone can suggest men they think may be qualified. To do so in writing would probably be best- and signed nominations would be better. A list can then be compiled of those suggested. Each of the men should be asked if they desire the office and feel themselves to be qualified. If not, they can remove their name from consideration. After each man is contacted, a final list can be compiled and presented to the congregation. Time should be allowed for members to visit with each man concerning potential objections to his qualification- if the objector will not talk to the man, he/she should not talk at all! When all objections are resolved either by clarification or by the man removing his name, those remaining on the list can be appointed.

14. Suggestions: (not a complete list) Make a list of all male members. Each of the men should be asked if they desire the office and feel themselves to be qualified. If not, they can remove their name from the list of those in consideration. After each man is contacted, a final list can be compiled and presented to the congregation. Time should be allowed for members to visit with each man concerning potential objections to his qualification- if the objector will not talk to the man, he/she should not talk at all! Though not stated before, obviously the current Elders can be of great assistance in questions of qualification. When all objections are resolved either by clarification or by the man removing his name, those remaining on the list can be appointed.

15. Suggestions: (not a complete list) Current Elders can compile a list men they feel are qualified to serve with them. cf. Acts 1:15-23 Each of the men should be asked if they desire the office and feel themselves to be qualified. If not, they can remove their name from the list of those in consideration. After each man is contacted, a final list can be compiled and presented to the congregation. Time should be allowed for members to visit with each man concerning potential objections to his qualification- if the objector will not talk to the man, he/she should not talk at all! When all objections are resolved either by clarification or by the man removing his name, those remaining on the list can be appointed.

16. Obviously: These are only suggestions. There are likely others, and perhaps better ideas about the “how to” of selecting. Through whatever means selected, the men can then be appointed. But who appoints them? Since no inspired evangelists such as Paul, Barnabas, Timothy, or Titus is available, the current Elders or Evangelist will have to suffice.

17. A few final words: This is serious business. We are selecting men for the highest calling there is upon the earth in God’s kingdom. We must trust them to help watch for our souls. We must submit to their leadership and judgment. We should select men whom we can appreciate and esteem highly in love, cf.1Thess.5:12-13. If none are found qualified- none should be chosen! If a dozen are found qualified- appoint them all because it’s a big job! May God help us to choose wisely!