Biblical Characteristics of an Elder

Elders at Rolling Hills Christian Church should demonstrate the characteristics of an elder as defined in Acts 20:17-45, 1 Peter 5:1-3, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Hebrews 13 and Titus 1:6-9, and other applicable Scriptures found in Scripture in the Bible. These characteristics are summarized as follows:
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• Above reproach - Elders must lead by example and demonstrate a lifestyle free of patterns of sin.
• Husband of one wife - If married, elders must be a devoted spouse.
• Temperate- Elders must be self-controlled, enslaved to nothing, and free from excesses.
• Prudent - Elders must be sober, sensible, wise, balanced in judgement, not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking. 
• Respectable - Elders must demonstrate a well-ordered life and honorable behavior.
• Hospitable - Elders must be unselfish wither personal resources. They must be willing to share blessing with others. 
• Able to teach - Elders must be able to communicate truth and sound doctrine in a non-argumentative way. To teach means to control the material and relate it effectively. It applies to lifestyle, as well as verbal communication. 
• Not addicted to wine - Elders must be free from addiction and willing to limit their liberty for the sake of other.
• Not pugnacious or quick tempered - Elders must gentle, patient and approachable, with the ability to handle difficult situations with a steady spirit. Leaders must be able to handle their own anger honestly and maturely.
• Uncontentious - Elders must not be given to quarreling or selfish arguing.
• Free from love of money - Elders must not be stingy, greedy, out for sordid gain, or preoccupied with amassing material things. 
• Mange own household - Elders must have a well-ordered household and a healthy family life. Management ability at home will predict excellence in church management. 
• Not a new convert - Elders must not be new believers. They must have been Christians long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and depth of their spiritual maturity. 
• Good reputation with outsiders - Elders must be well respected by unbelievers and free from hypocrisy.
• Not self-willed - Elders must not be stubborn, prone to force opinions on others or abuse authority. They must be servants.
• Loving what is good - Elders must desire the will of God in every decision. Their choices must reflect a heart that loves God and people. 
• Just - Elders must desire to be fair and impartial. Their judgements must be based on Scriptural principle and Godly thinking.  
• Devout - Elders must be devoted Christ-followers seeking to be conformed to His likeness. They must be committed to prayer, worship, study of scripture, leading in personal ministry, and guarding their own relationship with God.
• Holding fast to the faithful Word - Elders must be stable and well versed in the faith, obedient to the Bible, continually seeking to be led by the Holy Spirit.