The leadership structure of the early church was very simple consisting of two offices- elders (senior leaders) and deacons (ministers who assisted the elders in caring for the flock). Some of the Elders were ordained by God as special gifts to the Church for reasons outlined in Ephesians 4:12-16. These gifts are Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers (Ephesians 4:11). These gifts had varying spheres of influence (metrons). Most served a local assembly. Some served several assemblies. A number served large regions and territories. A few served the Universal Church. This is the biblical model of governance in the Church. This model was dismantled by Constantine in the second century. But God is bringing restoration to the Church.
Elder, Pastor and Bishop or Overseer represent qualities of those who serve in the role of a senior leader. “Elder” represents spiritual maturity and wisdom. “Pastor” is a shepherding term referring to how Elders care for people. “Bishop” or “overseer” refers to the oversight or administrative responsibilities that comes with the role of an Elder.
Elders may be called to serve the Body of Christ as a five-fold ministry gift (Apostle, Prophet, Pastor, Evangelist, Teacher). These ones are gifts to the Body. They're ordained by God and affirmed by other five-fold ministry gifts.
Not all elders are five-fold ministers. But I believe all five-fold ministry gifts should meet the qualifications of an elder AND serve in the role or capacity of an elder (sometimes referred to as "pastor") in an assembly prior to being affirmed to a five-fold ministry office. I believe one reason we see so much drama in the apostolic-prophetic movement is because we've been too quick to lay hands on people with no track record in life, faith or service. In many instances, we've exalted giftedness over character when affirming members to a five-fold office. So what are the qualifications of an elder? Here's how I interpret 1 Timothy 3:1-7.
1. Elders are servant leaders. Elders desire and pursue opportunities to serve and minister to the needs of others.
2. Elders have solid character. Their lifestyle doesn't bring shame or reproach to the Church. They abstain from violence and lawlessness. They have a good reputation in the Church and among the lost.
3. Elders are faithful. They don't engage in fornication, adultery (spiritual or natural) or any form of idolatry. They are fully committed to the Bridegroom Who is Jesus the Christ.
4. Elders are alert, watchful, prayerful, vigilant and clearheaded. Elders rely upon the grace of God for the inner strength to refrain from any excess that would dull spiritual discernment. Elders are not given to drunkenness (naturally or spiritually) or gluttony.
5. Elders are sober minded. Elders have a serious attitude about spiritual matters. Elders are earnest about the works of ministry. Elders don't cheapen ministry or the Gospel message with foolish words or behavior. They do and say everything to the glory of God. They speak as oracles of God and represent God in the earth with their actions and deeds.
6. Elders lead respectable, orderly, self-disciplined lives. Commentator Homer Kent said this: “The ministry is no place for the leader whose life is a continual confusion of unaccomplished plans and unorganized activities."
7. Elders are hospitable, lovers of strangers, contribute to the needs of saints, and minister to the saved and unsaved.
8. Elders are able to teach the Word and defend the faith. They embody the Presence of the Living Word.
9. Elders are not contentious. They can disagree without being disagreeable. They're patient, long suffering, considerate, genial, forbearing, and gracious. They easily pardon human failures.
10. They answer the call to serve not to be served or to amass wealth. If God allows them to become wealthy as ministers wonderful! And that should not be their driving force for becoming a minister. We do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain, and, the worker is worthy of his wages. However ministry should not be chosen for financial aspirations.
11. Elders are spiritually mature. They're not recent converts who are still babes in Christ.
12. Elders manage their personal lives, households and families well. An elder cares for their family in a dignified manner that encourages and draws respect from others. Their homes, family lives and personal relationships are under the authority of Christ and adhere to biblical standards.
(Reference: https://bible.org/seriespage/7-essential-qualities-elders-1-timothy-31-7)
