Being a faithful leader requires an understanding of the power of leading from a strongly defined sense of vision (Luke 4:16-21). However, as followers of Christ, elders know that real power springs from a spirituality that comes from a personal encounter with Christ (John 15:5). Thus, when the Bible speaks of an elder’s qualifications it describes character more than ability or talents (1 Tim 3:2-3).
In order to exercise true spiritual leadership an elder needs to make a conscious personal commitment to consistently engage in devotional practices (Mark 9:28-29), and pledge to engage in an ongoing process of learning in order to develop the mindset of a lifelong learner (2 Pet 3:18). Hence an elder’s example will help to create a culture of learning in the church.
