Main Idea: Qualified and competent men serving in the office of elder are a blessing to and necessary component of a rightly ordered church.

The Office of Elder Provides Order Through Oversight and Shepherding  - v. 5b, 7

• Acts 20:17, 28
• 1 Peter 5:1–4

Elders Must Be Men Who Are Above Reproach in Their Home, Community, and Character – v.6-8

• 6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. 
  • 1 Timothy 3:5
• 7b must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,
  • 1 Timothy 3:7
• 8  but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.
  • 1 Timothy 5:19, 20

Elders Must Be Doctrinally Sound Men Who Are Able to Instruct and Correct – v.9

• Acts 20:29, 30

So What?

• Because the Lord has blessed us with qualified and competent elders, we should joyfully follow them while praying that the Lord will raise up more. 
  • Hebrews 13:17