Fred Greco, Pastor of Christ Church Katy, TX and PCA General Assembly moderator, dives deep into the characteristics of teaching elders in church governance. He discusses their crucial roles in preaching, administering sacraments, and the specifics of church plant authority. The conversation highlights the limitations of evangelists, especially in foreign missions, and the dynamics of member admission and removal. Greco emphasizes the vital functions of ruling and teaching elders for fostering a thriving church community.
The distinct responsibilities of teaching elders, including preaching and administering sacraments, emphasize the importance of proper ordination and preparation.
Ruling elders play a vital role in governance and teaching within the church, highlighting the need for continuous education and active leadership development.
Deep dives
The Role of the Teaching Elder
A teaching elder has specific responsibilities that differentiate him from ruling elders, including the vital role of feeding the congregation through preaching and administering sacraments. He is seen as an ambassador for God, declaring His will to the people and serving as an evangelist by sharing the gospel. Additionally, the teaching elder acts as a steward of divine mysteries, responsible for guiding the church in the ordinances established by Christ. Each of these functions is essential to the ministry and emphasizes the importance of ordination and preparation for a teaching elder.
Understanding the Need for Licensing
When it comes to regularly preaching, a defined standard exists where individuals may need to be licensed to fulfill this role adequately. The criteria often include preaching at least once a month, which underscores the need for clergy to maintain structured oversight. Ruling elders can occasionally address the congregation but hold different expectations when it comes to regular preaching duties. This distinction maintains the integrity of the teaching elder's role and underscores the importance of proper oversight from presbyteries.
Clarifying the Evangelist's Function
An evangelist is designated within the PCA framework to perform specific functions, particularly in areas lacking PCA presence, operating under a renewable commission. This role, while distinct from general teaching elder duties, allows for greater authority in mission contexts, such as training officers and administering church membership. The purpose of this provision emphasizes careful consideration of authority and responsibility within church planting initiatives. It is crucial for presbyteries to maintain a close relationship with these evangelists to ensure guidance and accountability.
The Importance of Ruling Elders
Ruling elders play a crucial role in the church by not only aiding in governance but also in teaching, reinforcing the essential nature of their office in the Christian community. Their responsibilities include cultivating teaching abilities and actively engaging in educational opportunities, such as leading Bible studies or one-on-one mentoring. This multifaceted approach to teaching helps ensure that ruling elders are effective leaders within their congregations. Active involvement and continued learning are encouraged to cultivate their leadership skills and service to the church.