Caring for Souls Growing Disciples
A Resource for Church Elders
by
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Introduction
It is impossible for the pastor of a church to do all that is needed. Even if they were to try to accomplish this, without giving up their primary calling as disciples of Christ, it would be a futile effort. The ministry of the church, therefore, is not only the responsibility of the pastor, but the whole company of believers.
Elders are ordained to serve with the pastor as shepherds of the congregation, leading and equipping others to serve God, the Church, and the community, according to their gifts.
Scripture tells us that the work of an elder is a noble task, in which they are responsible for the spiritual care of others, and for this reason elders need to have a passion for the care of souls.
The saying is sure: whoever aspires to the office of bishop [or overseer] desires a noble task.
(1 Timothy 3:1)
Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it—not for sordid gain but eagerly. Do not lord it over those in your charge but be examples to the flock. (1 Peter 5:1-3)
As is the case with pastors, and all who live a Christian life, the primary concern for an elder is their own personal walk as a disciple of Christ. This means that the need for daily prayer and Bible reading in paramount – your own active spiritual life is what will fuel you to function as an elder. You are called to follow the example of St Paul as he led others saying: “follow me as I follow Christ.” In other words, you are to be a sheep from the front and a shepherd from the back, reflecting that which you hear preached, and if preaching yourself then looking at your sermons as though speaking to yourself in the mirror.
The office of elder is not an honorary title but a call to live a life of spiritual leadership, and as such will demand of you; sacrifice, perseverance, commitments, and on occasion suffering, as you follow the voice of God for yourself and the congregation you serve.
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About the Book
It is impossible for the pastor of a church to do all that is needed. Even if they were to try to accomplish this, without giving up their primary calling as disciples of Christ, it would be a futile effort. The ministry of the Church, therefore, is not only the responsibility of the pastor, but the whole company of believers. Elders are ordained to serve with the pastor as shepherds of the congregation, leading and equipping others to serve God, the church, and the community according to their gifts.
This book looks to provide a resource for all elders by looking to scripture for an understanding of eldership, defining this ministry for today, and outlining some of the duties that may be asked of them as they serve their local church.
About the Author
Dan Hetherington worked in ministry for many years as a lay member of staff before being ordained in 2017. He is a local church pastor that is passionate about making disciples that can make disciples, and loves to help people develop deeper covenant relationship with God, one another, and with the community that surrounds them. Dan originates from England, and studied for his MA in Theology and Ministry at Cranmer Hall, Durham.