The church is to be led in an orderly manner (1 Cor 14:40), which is why the elder’s function as an overseer” (Acts 20:28) is significant. Cooperating with the pastor to have oversight over all the activities and departments of the church will need a good understanding of the organisation and governance principles by which the Seventh-day Adventist church functions. This, among other things, involves learning how to lead a congregation in worship, as well as how to run effective committees and how best to assist the pastor in facilitating a smooth church election process.
The Bible suggests that all elders should be ‘able to teach’ (1 Tim 3:2), which is principally done through giving Bible studies and preaching. Elders will therefore develop their abilities to study God’s Word with others (2 Tim 2:15), as well as acquiring effective public speaking and sermon preparation skills. All with the ultimate purpose of changing lives.
Added to this the elder will develop an appreciation of team building principles and the capacity to recognise the gifts and talents of others (1 Cor 12:1-11 ).
Presentations
Leading
- GO 1.1 The Elder as Church Leader (Ch4)
- GO 1.2 Principles of effective leadership
- GO 1.3 The Elder and Special Services (Ch8)
- GO 1.4 Church manual
Administrating
- GO 2.1 The Church and Its Organisation (Ch1)
- GO 2.2 The Elder as Supporter of Other Local Leaders (Ch5)
Communicating
