Qualifications
Elders must be men whose lives are above reproach and are characterized by the qualities set forth in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. They must desire the office of elder and demonstrate spiritual leadership abilities among the flock. They must be able to teach and use the Word of God with wisdom and patience. They must be lovers of God; men who take God and His Word seriously. They must be able to manage their household in a biblical manner. They must be able to spiritually manage their interpersonal relationships. They must be men who are seeking to be controlled by Christ and His Word rather than by worldly and fleshly desires. They must hold to the doctrinal statement of Grace Church and be church members.

Authority
The ministry of Grace Community Church shall be under the direction of the Lord Jesus Christ working in and through the Board of Elders. The elders will be the primary decision-making body within the church. However, it is critical that the elders make decisions based on carefully assembled facts, scriptural insight, the individual and corporate leading by the Holy Spirit, and input from the body (Acts 6:5; 15:6, 22; Heb. 13:17; 1 Thess. 5:12-13).

Selection Process
The selection process must be such that it enable the congregation to identify those men whom God is appointing to the office of elder. The congregation should be on the alert for men whose lives characterize the qualifications laid out in Scripture. Only qualified men will be appointed. The process begins by the elected elders identifying a potential candidate and inquiring if he desires the office of elder. If so, the candidate is mentored by an elected elder, a process which requires approximately a year. During the mentoring process, the candidate attends elder meetings and serves at assignments given him by the Board. When mentoring is complete, the candidate is evaluated by the congregation according to the qualifications stipulated in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. (To download a sample of an Elder Evaluation Form, click here). If the congregation confirms that he is qualified, the Elder Board recommends the candidate to the congregation for election to the office of elder. The elder candidate is elected to eldership by a majority vote of the members voting at a regular or special meeting.

Tenure
Elders are elected to an indefinite tenure consistent with their continued desire and ability to serve in this capacity. This shall be evaluated, recognized and reaffirmed by themselves, by the other elders, and by the church body at five year intervals. Elders not re-affirmed will not continue to serve. The removal of elders from office shall be effected by personal resignation or by disciplinary actions as stipulated in the church constitution.

Responsibilities
The elders must first and foremost exercise a personal spiritual walk which promotes self examination, maintains a servant-like quality in life, and serves with gentleness and humility in all that he does. The elders are responsible to give themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word. They are to guard and protect the flock while overseeing and providing spiritual direction for the activities and growth of the congregation. Elders see to the appointment and guidance of the deacons. Elders must strive to maintain open communication with the flock, both to discern needs, concerns and viewpoints, and to communicate information and decisions. Finally, elders warn and discipline members to bring repentance and restoration according to the principles of Scripture.

We also highly recommend Biblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch to better understand the character and function of shepherd eldership.

Our Elders:
Click here to meet our elders.