18. Pastor Lee : Since our church will be ordaining elders, I have a question regarding elders and deacons. What is the difference between the two? What does the Bible say about this issue? Thanks. Sincerely, Newton

Dear Newton: I am glad that you ask this question. The New Testament clearly teaches that there are two offices in the government of the church. The word elder means older, senior. It implies maturity of age, wisdom and experience. From ancient time elders were selected to rule over a tribe, city or nation. In the Old Testament time and during the time of Jesus, Israel had elders to rule over the cities and the nation. After Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel and won many converts, they ordained elders from among the believers to take charge of the flock after they left. (Acts 14:22-23)

Elder in the Christian church implies not only maturity of age and wisdom, it also implies maturity of spiritual life. That is why Paul said: "an overseer (elder) must not be a new convert" Paul set down the qualification of elder in 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:7-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-4. The responsibilities of the elders are to shepherd the flock. (1 Pet. 5:1-4). To shepherd means to oversee, to rule, to guide and to teach (feed) the flock. The elders should also lead the church in worship. (Rev. 4:10) The elders should seek the mind of the Lord in governing the church. (Acts 15:6)

The word deacon means servant or minister. The qualification is set down in 1 Tim. 3:8-13; Acts 6:3 The responsibilities of the deacons are to do the work of the ministry. These include the administration of food, taking care the house of God, the church buildings, finance, evangelism, missions, caring, visitation, etc.

The deacons are to assist the elders to shepherd the flock. The main focus of the elders is to shepherd the flock while the main focus of the deacons is to get the tasks done. G. Lee