March 12, 2006
The Chairman of the Elders
What is the chairman of the elders—and what is he not? Gary Fait reflects on rotating leadership, church authority, and why the chairman’s role should be defined by service, not superiority.
Eldership
Eldership offers biblically grounded resources for elders and churches seeking faithful, healthy spiritual oversight. Explore articles on the qualifications and responsibilities of elders, shepherding and pastoral care, governance and decision-making, accountability, and leading with humility and courage. You’ll also find guidance for elder selection and training, teamwork among elders and staff, handling conflict, and caring for the congregation through change. Whether you serve as an elder, are preparing to become one, or want to strengthen your church’s leadership structure, these resources aim to support wise, Christ-centered shepherding.
March 8, 2006
The Truth About Elders and Ministers
Disconnected comments can reveal a lot about how elders and ministers relate. Mark A. Taylor contrasts unhealthy patterns with a better path marked by mutual respect, shared accountability, and stronger leadership.
March 5, 2006
Our Acorn-to-Oak Story
John Faust reflects on four early elders at Southeast Christian Church and the leadership qualities that helped lay a lasting foundation—quality, trust, unity, and availability—for the church’s growth in Louisville.
September 11, 2005
Re-Respect Your Elders
Volunteer elders often face misunderstanding and criticism. Eddie Lowen urges churches to reject disrespect, uphold biblical qualifications, and use thoughtful selection practices so elders can lead with integrity and joy.
May 29, 2005
Moving from Managers to Shepherds (Part 2)
Practical steps to help elders move from boardroom management to pastoral shepherding—learning shepherding skills, delegating wisely to deacons and staff, forming real flocks, and reshaping meetings for prayer, encouragement, and ministry.
May 22, 2005
A Guide to Effective Leadership
Randy Richards and Gary York outline a leadership model that clarifies elder and staff responsibilities, emphasizes policy leadership and empowerment, and helps churches measure progress toward a God-given vision.
May 22, 2005
A Guide to Effective Leadership: A Case Study
Eastview Christian Church faced leadership stagnation as growth outpaced older processes. Randy Richards and Gary York describe how policy leadership clarified roles, improved meetings, strengthened teamwork, and helped elders focus on vision, monitoring, and strategic thinking.
May 22, 2005
A Guide to Effective Leadership: Policies
Randy Richards and Gary York describe four key elder policy categories—vision, process, relationship, and limitation—kept in a regularly updated policy manual to guide proactive oversight, delegation, and clear boundaries for church leadership.
