Church leaders (elders, as the COC designates them) truly have the toughest jobs in the world.  Those desiring such a lofty leadership role have my utmost respect.  Elders must be walking and talking examples of what a Christian should be; not only to the local congregation, but the entire community.

Elders are selected in various ways; often a few names of those willing and desiring the office are presented to the church, and unless anyone has scriptural grounds that they feel disqualifies the candidate they are accepted without much ado.

Now the scary part…elders can make or break a church.  Large wealthy churches often have elders astute in the business world and the church may be run like a cold business enterprise providing little spiritual insight; while some small churches have a dearth of qualified members who are able, or willing, to assume a leadership role.  I take my hat off to anyone willing to lead a congregation of God’s children and seek to provide a good example of the Christian walk, but just because someone is willing, and desires the office of an elder, does not in itself qualify that person to lead a church.

Do you know of any churches where the elders willingly present themselves before the church on a regular basis (once a year, or whatever) to determine whether they are leading the church in the right direction, and if the congregation wants them to continue as an elder?  I believe a church has the right to assess their leaders; perhaps not on a scale of 1-10, but by some means we need to insure that our elders are leading us as God has directed.

There are elders who because of their age, or health problems, need to diligently search their hearts as to whether or not they can still be viable shepherds.  I totally respect those willing to provide leadership in the church, but when they are no longer able to lead, or no longer desire the office, it’s time for a change.