Not a Novice

Those who have true respect for the Word of God will respect what the Bible teaches regarding the way the church is governed. We know Christ is the head. It is organized into local autonomous congregations that are overseen by elders (pastors, bishops, overseers) and served by deacons, all members, including preachers and teachers, making up the body.

Not just anyone is to assume the work of an elder. There are qualifications, one of which he is NOT to be a novice. That means he is not to be a recent convert, one who is too young to have knowledge and wisdom that experience teaches. He is to be mature Christian and demonstrates he knows what he's doing.

Many churches have suffered because of poor leadership. Having someone at the helm who is not thoroughly instructed and committed to the will of the Lord can only produce havoc for the church.