Lay Elder Team
Some information below is comprised with help from “A Job Description for Lay Elders” by Jeramie Rinne
A lay elder is a faithful man raised up from within the body to help shepherd God’s people. Though he is not paid, his calling is no less weighty—he walks with the church family, teaches the Word, leads with humility, prays for the church, assists the pastoral team, and reflects Christ in everyday life.
Responsibilities of Lay Elders
Lay elders are often devoted members who care for the church but may not fully grasp the biblical role of an elder—an issue even paid pastors can share. As a result, lay elders sometimes rely on their own backgrounds, equating eldership with roles like trustees or managers, which don’t truly match the responsibilities required.
So, what is a lay elder’s actual role? Is it just attending meetings, approving budgets, or distributing communion?
Shepherd God’s Flock
Peter instructs elders to "shepherd God's flock" (1 Pet. 5:2; see also John 21:15–16, Acts 20:28), meaning they provide spiritual guidance and care for church members as a shepherd does for sheep. Shepherding is a helpful metaphor, but new elders require clear instructions. The Bible outlines specific duties to guide elders in their roles.
Outlined below are four key responsibilities that are fundamental to the role of an elder. Although this list is not comprehensive, focusing on these areas can significantly enhance effectiveness in fulfilling pastoral duties.
1. Teach
An elder must be “an able teacher” (1 Tim. 3:2; see 5:17). He must hold “to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and refute those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9). Jesus’ under-shepherds feed Jesus’ sheep with Jesus’ word.
If you’re an elder, find venues for teaching the Bible regularly. Teach a Sunday class, lead a group, give a lesson to the youth group, or study Scripture with a member over coffee.
Further, tune in to the church’s overall teaching ministry. Keep a finger on the pulse of what’s being taught through congregational singing or in the Sunday curriculum. Listen closely when members talk about what they’re reading and be alert for unhealthy teachings.
Finally, remember that teaching includes training others to perpetuate the church’s teaching ministry. As Paul said to Timothy, “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tim. 2:2). So, bring along someone whenever you can.
Elders who embrace their teaching role also help guide and build up the church by leading the congregation with wisdom and courage. As overseers, they’re called not only to instruct but to actively shepherd the flock through life’s challenges, addressing issues head-on and encouraging spiritual growth in every member. By faithfully modeling Christlike character—serving humbly and walking closely with those they lead—elders foster a community shaped by discipleship and authentic relationships. Ultimately, their impact is measured not by organizational efficiency or doctrinal precision alone, but by the transformation and maturity of the church as members imitate the faith and love exemplified by their leaders.
2. Lead
Just as shepherds lead their flocks, so elders lead local congregations. The biblical writers also call elders “overseers,” a title that highlights their role as leaders (Acts 20:28; 1 Tim. 3:1; Titus 1:5, 7). Hebrews instructs Christians to “obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account” (Heb. 13:17).
Elders, be brave and lead your church. Don’t hide among the baggage like King Saul. When you see challenges in your church, face them proactively and plot a course forward.
Courageous leadership might involve reaching out to a frustrated member who’s stopped attending or confronting an unrepentant member through church discipline. Or it could mean wrestling through staffing strategies, budget challenges, or important policies that affect the spiritual identity of the congregation.
As you lead, don’t lose sight of the destination. The goal isn’t to lead a church to become an efficient organization, as important as that may be. Rather, elders should lead church members toward maturity in Christ. Jesus gave teaching shepherds to the church “to build up the body of Christ until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, growing into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness” (Eph. 4:12–13).
Elders bring the flock to green pastures and still waters when they help members know Jesus more and increasingly reflect his glory together.
Such leadership, grounded in biblical conviction and pastoral courage, paves the way for elders to become living examples to their flock, not as domineering authorities but as humble guides who model Christlike maturity in daily life. By walking closely with church members, inviting them into authentic relationships, and demonstrating godliness under pressure, elders set a standard for the congregation to follow.
This commitment to visible, accessible leadership—one that is marked by openness, integrity, and genuine love—enables the church to flourish spiritually, nurturing a community where discipleship is lived out and faith is deepened through shared experience. Ultimately, the effectiveness of eldership is measured not only by organizational success or doctrinal soundness, but by the transformation of lives as church members witness and imitate the faith, hope, and love embodied by their leaders.
3. Model
Significantly, elders are expected to provide leadership by setting a positive example. They are instructed to guide the church not through dominance but by serving as role models for the congregation (1 Pet. 5:3). The qualifications for elders outlined in the New Testament emphasize personal character (1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Pet. 5:1–4). At its core, an elder’s principal responsibility is to exemplify behavior worth emulating, as stated in “Imitate me as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1).
The imperative to demonstrate maturity involves two essential considerations. First, effective modeling requires vigilant self-examination and integrity: Leaders must closely monitor both their personal lives and their teaching (1 Tim. 4:16). Maintaining a close relationship with the Lord, nurturing one’s family, resisting sinful tendencies, and showing genuine care for others are paramount. Additionally, elders should invite constructive accountability from their peers, recognizing that fostering maturity is a collaborative endeavor.
Second, authentic modeling necessitates regular engagement with church members. This approach is only effective when leaders are accessible and transparent. Elders are encouraged to welcome members into their personal lives, homes, interests, and ministries. Such openness enables congregants to observe firsthand how leaders manage stress, interact with their families, address challenging situations, and respond with humility when mistakes occur.
When elders embody the qualities, they teach and remain open and available to those they serve, their influence extends beyond instruction, shaping the spiritual culture of the church. By consistently modeling Christlike character in everyday interactions, elders foster trust and set a standard for sincere discipleship. This ongoing example encourages others to pursue spiritual growth and unity, laying a foundation for genuine community and collective transformation. As leaders invest in relationships and faithfully walk alongside church members, their example becomes a living testimony that inspires, instructs, and strengthens the body of Christ, preparing the ground for shared prayer and deeper engagement with God’s work among his people.
4. Pray
Elders must focus on prayer and preaching, recognizing that spiritual growth comes only through the Holy Spirit's work with God's Word. Realizing their limitations, elders should regularly pray for their church and themselves.
Whether lay or paid, elders should integrate prayer into daily routines—praying for members during commutes or walks, setting aside lay elder meeting time for focused prayer, and praying immediately with church members when speaking with them.
Such persistent devotion to prayer not only connects elders to the heart of God but also deepens their reliance on his guidance and power as they shepherd the flock. As leaders intercede for the church with humility and faith, they become conduits for God’s grace, modeling dependence on Christ and fostering a spirit of unity among the congregation. In every circumstance—whether moments of joy, seasons of hardship, or times of uncertainty—elders who pray faithfully both with and for those they serve help weave prayer into the fabric of church life, ensuring that every aspect of ministry is upheld by God’s sustaining presence and transforming love.
Shepherd like Jesus
An elder’s responsibilities can be concisely described as shepherding church members with the care and guidance modeled by Jesus toward His disciples.
It is essential to prioritize teaching within ministry, ensuring that both Jesus and the gospel remain the central focus. In every decision, elders should guide their congregation towards a deeper knowledge and trust in Jesus, serving as an example of His character through personal conduct. Additionally, elders are encouraged to follow Jesus' practice of prayer, dedicating time to intercede on behalf of others.
Elders serve most effectively when they exemplify the leadership and character of Jesus, the Chief Shepherd.
To truly shepherd like Jesus, elders must also cultivate humility, approachability, and a willingness to serve in every aspect of church life. By engaging regularly and transparently with the congregation, they create an environment where trust flourishes, challenges can be addressed openly, and spiritual growth is nurtured. Their commitment to fostering genuine relationships and walking alongside members through both celebrations and struggles not only strengthens the church community but also reinforces the unity and love that characterize Christ’s body. As elders remain attentive to the needs of the flock, continually seeking God’s wisdom and leading by example, their faithful presence becomes a source of encouragement and stability, ensuring that each member experiences the transformative care and guidance of a shepherd who reflects the heart of Jesus.
A lay elder is a faithful man raised up from within the body to help shepherd God’s people. Though he is not paid, his calling is no less weighty—he walks with the church family, teaches the Word, leads with humility, prays for the church, assists the pastoral team, and reflects Christ in everyday life.
Responsibilities of Lay Elders
Lay elders are often devoted members who care for the church but may not fully grasp the biblical role of an elder—an issue even paid pastors can share. As a result, lay elders sometimes rely on their own backgrounds, equating eldership with roles like trustees or managers, which don’t truly match the responsibilities required.
So, what is a lay elder’s actual role? Is it just attending meetings, approving budgets, or distributing communion?
Shepherd God’s Flock
Peter instructs elders to "shepherd God's flock" (1 Pet. 5:2; see also John 21:15–16, Acts 20:28), meaning they provide spiritual guidance and care for church members as a shepherd does for sheep. Shepherding is a helpful metaphor, but new elders require clear instructions. The Bible outlines specific duties to guide elders in their roles.
Outlined below are four key responsibilities that are fundamental to the role of an elder. Although this list is not comprehensive, focusing on these areas can significantly enhance effectiveness in fulfilling pastoral duties.
1. Teach
An elder must be “an able teacher” (1 Tim. 3:2; see 5:17). He must hold “to the faithful message as taught, so that he will be able both to encourage with sound teaching and refute those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9). Jesus’ under-shepherds feed Jesus’ sheep with Jesus’ word.
If you’re an elder, find venues for teaching the Bible regularly. Teach a Sunday class, lead a group, give a lesson to the youth group, or study Scripture with a member over coffee.
Further, tune in to the church’s overall teaching ministry. Keep a finger on the pulse of what’s being taught through congregational singing or in the Sunday curriculum. Listen closely when members talk about what they’re reading and be alert for unhealthy teachings.
Finally, remember that teaching includes training others to perpetuate the church’s teaching ministry. As Paul said to Timothy, “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tim. 2:2). So, bring along someone whenever you can.
Elders who embrace their teaching role also help guide and build up the church by leading the congregation with wisdom and courage. As overseers, they’re called not only to instruct but to actively shepherd the flock through life’s challenges, addressing issues head-on and encouraging spiritual growth in every member. By faithfully modeling Christlike character—serving humbly and walking closely with those they lead—elders foster a community shaped by discipleship and authentic relationships. Ultimately, their impact is measured not by organizational efficiency or doctrinal precision alone, but by the transformation and maturity of the church as members imitate the faith and love exemplified by their leaders.
2. Lead
Just as shepherds lead their flocks, so elders lead local congregations. The biblical writers also call elders “overseers,” a title that highlights their role as leaders (Acts 20:28; 1 Tim. 3:1; Titus 1:5, 7). Hebrews instructs Christians to “obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account” (Heb. 13:17).
Elders, be brave and lead your church. Don’t hide among the baggage like King Saul. When you see challenges in your church, face them proactively and plot a course forward.
Courageous leadership might involve reaching out to a frustrated member who’s stopped attending or confronting an unrepentant member through church discipline. Or it could mean wrestling through staffing strategies, budget challenges, or important policies that affect the spiritual identity of the congregation.
As you lead, don’t lose sight of the destination. The goal isn’t to lead a church to become an efficient organization, as important as that may be. Rather, elders should lead church members toward maturity in Christ. Jesus gave teaching shepherds to the church “to build up the body of Christ until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, growing into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness” (Eph. 4:12–13).
Elders bring the flock to green pastures and still waters when they help members know Jesus more and increasingly reflect his glory together.
Such leadership, grounded in biblical conviction and pastoral courage, paves the way for elders to become living examples to their flock, not as domineering authorities but as humble guides who model Christlike maturity in daily life. By walking closely with church members, inviting them into authentic relationships, and demonstrating godliness under pressure, elders set a standard for the congregation to follow.
This commitment to visible, accessible leadership—one that is marked by openness, integrity, and genuine love—enables the church to flourish spiritually, nurturing a community where discipleship is lived out and faith is deepened through shared experience. Ultimately, the effectiveness of eldership is measured not only by organizational success or doctrinal soundness, but by the transformation of lives as church members witness and imitate the faith, hope, and love embodied by their leaders.
3. Model
Significantly, elders are expected to provide leadership by setting a positive example. They are instructed to guide the church not through dominance but by serving as role models for the congregation (1 Pet. 5:3). The qualifications for elders outlined in the New Testament emphasize personal character (1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Pet. 5:1–4). At its core, an elder’s principal responsibility is to exemplify behavior worth emulating, as stated in “Imitate me as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1).
The imperative to demonstrate maturity involves two essential considerations. First, effective modeling requires vigilant self-examination and integrity: Leaders must closely monitor both their personal lives and their teaching (1 Tim. 4:16). Maintaining a close relationship with the Lord, nurturing one’s family, resisting sinful tendencies, and showing genuine care for others are paramount. Additionally, elders should invite constructive accountability from their peers, recognizing that fostering maturity is a collaborative endeavor.
Second, authentic modeling necessitates regular engagement with church members. This approach is only effective when leaders are accessible and transparent. Elders are encouraged to welcome members into their personal lives, homes, interests, and ministries. Such openness enables congregants to observe firsthand how leaders manage stress, interact with their families, address challenging situations, and respond with humility when mistakes occur.
When elders embody the qualities, they teach and remain open and available to those they serve, their influence extends beyond instruction, shaping the spiritual culture of the church. By consistently modeling Christlike character in everyday interactions, elders foster trust and set a standard for sincere discipleship. This ongoing example encourages others to pursue spiritual growth and unity, laying a foundation for genuine community and collective transformation. As leaders invest in relationships and faithfully walk alongside church members, their example becomes a living testimony that inspires, instructs, and strengthens the body of Christ, preparing the ground for shared prayer and deeper engagement with God’s work among his people.
4. Pray
Elders must focus on prayer and preaching, recognizing that spiritual growth comes only through the Holy Spirit's work with God's Word. Realizing their limitations, elders should regularly pray for their church and themselves.
Whether lay or paid, elders should integrate prayer into daily routines—praying for members during commutes or walks, setting aside lay elder meeting time for focused prayer, and praying immediately with church members when speaking with them.
Such persistent devotion to prayer not only connects elders to the heart of God but also deepens their reliance on his guidance and power as they shepherd the flock. As leaders intercede for the church with humility and faith, they become conduits for God’s grace, modeling dependence on Christ and fostering a spirit of unity among the congregation. In every circumstance—whether moments of joy, seasons of hardship, or times of uncertainty—elders who pray faithfully both with and for those they serve help weave prayer into the fabric of church life, ensuring that every aspect of ministry is upheld by God’s sustaining presence and transforming love.
Shepherd like Jesus
An elder’s responsibilities can be concisely described as shepherding church members with the care and guidance modeled by Jesus toward His disciples.
It is essential to prioritize teaching within ministry, ensuring that both Jesus and the gospel remain the central focus. In every decision, elders should guide their congregation towards a deeper knowledge and trust in Jesus, serving as an example of His character through personal conduct. Additionally, elders are encouraged to follow Jesus' practice of prayer, dedicating time to intercede on behalf of others.
Elders serve most effectively when they exemplify the leadership and character of Jesus, the Chief Shepherd.
To truly shepherd like Jesus, elders must also cultivate humility, approachability, and a willingness to serve in every aspect of church life. By engaging regularly and transparently with the congregation, they create an environment where trust flourishes, challenges can be addressed openly, and spiritual growth is nurtured. Their commitment to fostering genuine relationships and walking alongside members through both celebrations and struggles not only strengthens the church community but also reinforces the unity and love that characterize Christ’s body. As elders remain attentive to the needs of the flock, continually seeking God’s wisdom and leading by example, their faithful presence becomes a source of encouragement and stability, ensuring that each member experiences the transformative care and guidance of a shepherd who reflects the heart of Jesus.