The Life and Character of the Officer
The EPC Book of Government wisely advises that before nominating a person to church office, the congregation should “carefully study appropriate passages of Scripture… and be very prayerful in selecting persons to this office.” This is necessary because God himself gives us the offices of minister, elder and deacon; and it is he who describes the qualifications for those who are to be chosen. Our task is not to select “the best people we have,” but rather to elect only those who fit God’s description given to us in the Scriptures.
Qualifications or Attributes of the Officer
From the Bible: 1 Timothy 3:1-13; 2 Timothy 2:24-25; 1 Peter 5:1-4; Titus 1:6-9; Ezra 7:9b-10
Attributes of an officer should be already present. Focus should not be on personality but character – the fruit of godliness. Candidate must commit to the pursuit of Christ-like character and attributes required of an officer. Candidate must be an example.
If you would like to endorse someone as a candidate for Elder, Deacon, or Trustee please submit by form here.
If you have questions or need more information, contact the church office at 423-886-2190.