The Bible does indeed teach that local churches should be led by a plurality of elders. This model of church leadership can be seen in several places in the New Testament. Here is an overview of the biblical evidence for a plurality of elders:
Evidence from the Book of Acts
The book of Acts shows that the early church appointed elders (presbyteroi in Greek) in each church. For example:
- Acts 14:23 – Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in the churches they planted.
- Acts 20:17 – Paul summons the elders of the church in Ephesus.
The consistent use of the plural “elders” indicates multiple elders were appointed in each local church.
Qualifications for Elders in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1
The qualifications for overseers/elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9 are written in the plural form, implying that there were multiple elders in each church:
- “An overseer must be…” (1 Tim 3:2)
- “Deacons must be…” (1 Tim 3:8)
- “The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you” (Titus 1:5)
Paul addresses the qualifications to plural elders in Crete as well as Ephesus. If each church only had one elder, he would have written in the singular form.
Examples of Plurality of Elders
We see examples of a plurality of elders in action in the New Testament:
- Acts 11:30 – Elders in Antioch send relief to Judea
- Acts 14:23 – Paul and Barnabas appoint elders in each church
- Acts 15:2,4,6,22,23 – The apostles and elders consider the question of circumcision
- Acts 20:17 – Paul summons the elders of the church in Ephesus
- 1 Tim 5:17 – References made to some elders who rule well, especially those who preach and teach
- James 5:14 – Sick Christians are instructed to call the elders to pray and anoint with oil
- 1 Peter 5:1 – Peter exhorts the elders to be good shepherds of God’s flock
In all these cases, there is consistent reference to a plurality of elders in each local church, not just one solitary elder/overseer.
Reasons for a Plurality of Elders
There are several good reasons why having multiple elders is beneficial:
- Accountability – Having a group of elders provides mutual accountability, limiting the influence any one person can have.
- Wisdom – A plurality of elders allows for a diversity of perspectives and experiences.
- Sharing the burden – No one person has to carry all the responsibility, lessening the chance of burnout.
- Modeling servanthood – Having multiple elders models the biblical principle that leadership should be marked by servanthood.
In contrast, a single or solo pastor model concentrates power and authority into one individual, something the Bible does not endorse. Shared leadership helps prevent pastor burnout and minimizes the potential for authoritarianism.
What’s the Difference Between Elders and Deacons?
Elders and deacons serve different roles in the church:
- Elders provide spiritual leadership and oversight to the church. They teach biblical doctrine and preach (1 Tim 3:2; 5:17).
- Deacons provide practical service and meet tangible needs in the church. They care for the sick and poor (Acts 6:1-6).
Elders focus on the spiritual health of the church while deacons facilitate more of the physical operations. Ideally, deacons function under the authority and direction of the elders.
Were there Single-Pastor Churches in the New Testament?
There are no examples of single-pastor churches in the New Testament. Each time elders are mentioned, it is always in the plural. Some point to James as the single leader of the Jerusalem church, but Acts 15 makes it clear he was one of many elders.
It is interesting that the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus) assume a plurality of elders even in the smallest house churches of that day. This plurality of elders model appears to be the consistent New Testament pattern.
Does This Mean the Senior/Lead Pastor Model is Wrong?
Not necessarily. Many churches today practice a blended model with a senior or lead pastor who functions as the primary teaching pastor and vision-caster, working together with other associate pastors and lay elders.
While perhaps not the clear plurality of equals seen in Acts and the Epistles, this senior pastor model can still reflect biblical priorities in the way the various elders relate and make decisions together. The key is mutual submission, stewardship, and unity among the leadership team.
Practical Steps to Transition to a Plurality of Elders
For churches transitioning to a plural elder leadership model, here are some practical steps:
- Study the biblical texts and teach on this topic to gain congregational understanding.
- Prayerfully identify a pool of qualified, servant-hearted candidates for elder.
- Select the initial group of elders and begin empowering them to lead (could be a staggered transition).
- Develop a clear structure, processes, and bylaws defining the relationship between lead pastor and lay elders.
- Exercise patience – it takes time to change established patterns and culture.
With prayer, humility and commitment to biblical priorities, churches can successfully transition to a model of shared elder leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
How were elders selected in the early church?
The New Testament does not prescribe a specific process, but evidence suggests the existing elders identified, assessed, and appointed new elders based on the qualificiations (1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). The congregation likely provided input but elders made the final determination.
How many elders should a church have?
There is no fixed number prescribed in Scripture. The number likely depended on the size and needs of each local congregation. Smaller churches may have had only 3-5 elders, while larger churches likely had 10-20.
What organizational model should a plural elder leadership follow?
There are several models churches can consider, such as a Council of Elders, a rotating Chairman model, a Senior/Lead Pastor model, or Co-Pastor model. The key is shared authority and mutual submission to Christ.
What is the role of the congregation in an elder-led church?
Member input is important and should be sought when appointing elders. Elders are ultimately accountable to Christ first, and also the congregation. However, the elders should provide the overall direction and leadership for the church.
What are the qualifications to be an elder?
The key qualifications are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9 – blameless, faithful to wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not violent, gentle, not quarrelsome, not lover of money, manage own family well, not a recent convert, have a good reputation with outsiders.
Conclusion
In summary, the consistent New Testament model is a plurality of spiritually mature elders in each local church providing joint oversight and care for the congregation. While pragmatic factors may lead to adaptations, this plural elder structure should be the aim. By following biblical teaching on this issue, churches can evangelize, disciple, and care for God’s people in a way that honors Christ and builds up His Body.