RobertPGH1981
Puritan Board Sophomore
For some quick context and background; I attend a 1689 Baptist church and when thinking of church leadership I think in terms of congregational lead structures. However, I am interested in hearing views from other forms in addition to the one I am in. So when you respond please let me know what form of church government you are responding.
My question sits with the concept of Elder/Overseer in a church. When churches grow usually the number of Elders who are included in the ranks grow as well. Some of the Elders are training and come directly from seminaries who receive double honor (ie. wages). Others were normal congregants not trained in seminary but pass the requirements of being an Elder. However, since they're not formally trained I have seen elders refer to some of them as Lay Elders. This appears to be a Baptist phenomenon (example: 9 Marks) but I can't speak on behalf of Presbyterian circles. Can you share your thoughts on the following questions:
1. Is it biblical to refer to an Elders as a Elders and Lay Elder? (ie. one formally trained and/or staff vs one raised up who doesn't have formal training)
2. Does a Lay Elder have the same authority as an Elder/Pastor/Senior Pastor?
3. Is it biblical to have a title of Lead Pastor for one person and Associate Pastor or Pastor for another person?
4. When there is conflict between Elders how is it resolved?
As always thank you for your insight.
My question sits with the concept of Elder/Overseer in a church. When churches grow usually the number of Elders who are included in the ranks grow as well. Some of the Elders are training and come directly from seminaries who receive double honor (ie. wages). Others were normal congregants not trained in seminary but pass the requirements of being an Elder. However, since they're not formally trained I have seen elders refer to some of them as Lay Elders. This appears to be a Baptist phenomenon (example: 9 Marks) but I can't speak on behalf of Presbyterian circles. Can you share your thoughts on the following questions:
1. Is it biblical to refer to an Elders as a Elders and Lay Elder? (ie. one formally trained and/or staff vs one raised up who doesn't have formal training)
2. Does a Lay Elder have the same authority as an Elder/Pastor/Senior Pastor?
3. Is it biblical to have a title of Lead Pastor for one person and Associate Pastor or Pastor for another person?
4. When there is conflict between Elders how is it resolved?
As always thank you for your insight.