Dial In with Jonny Ardavanis

What Does a Church Elder Actually Do? Biblical Qualifications, Role & Calling Explained

July 21, 2026·38 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

What is the biblical role of a church elder or pastor — and why should it matter to you, even if you never plan to be one? In this episode, a father-son pastoral duo break down the calling, qualifications, attitude, function, and motivation of a biblical elder, drawing from 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5.You'll learn:✅ How a man is called to be an elder (subjective desire + objective qualifications)✅ The biblical qualifications of an elder or pastor (1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1)✅ Why elder plurality matters — and why no pastor should act like a CEO✅ The right attitude of a shepherd: serving, not lording over the flock✅ The core function of an elder: preaching, teaching, and equipping the church✅ What motivates a faithful elder for the long haulWhether you're a pastor, an aspiring elder, or simply a church member wanting to understand biblical church leadership, this conversation will help you see why "the church cannot rise above its leadership."📖 Scriptures referenced: 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, 1 Peter 5:1-4, Acts 14:22-23, Acts 20:28, Ephesians 4:11, 2 Timothy 2:15, 2 Timothy 4:5🎓 This episode is sponsored by The Master's University. To learn more about how you can invest in a college education devoted to Christ & Scripture, visit https://www.masters.eduSubscribe for more conversations on church health, biblical leadership, and pastoral ministry.

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