Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

c. Elders instructed the community in the Word and will of the Lord (elders functioned as teaching elders ).

4. Worked alongside the deacons, Phil. 1.1

5. No accusation was to be entertained against them without sufficient witnesses and evidence, 1 Tim. 5.19.

B. Elders gave pastoral care to the members of the community.

In the meanwhile, let those certain [presbyters] among you who are rash, incautious, and boastful . . . be suspended from offering [the Eucharist]. ~ Cyprian (c. 250, W), 5.290., Ibid.

1. They were charged with tending the flock, 1 Pet. 5.1-3.

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2. They exercised pastoral care and counseling.

a. They are charged with the task of feeding the flock of God through preaching and teaching, 1 Tim. 5.17.

b. They were to take the lead in healing ministry (i.e., anointing the sick and praying for their restoration and healing), James 5.14.

c. They were charged with nurturing the flock as an example to the believers, 1 Pet. 5.1-4.

C. Elders were charged with serving as a role model for the members of the community.

1. They were invested with apostolic sanction and authority, Titus 1.5.