Pastors / Elders

Scripture describes the role of elder, pastor, bishop, and overseer as the same office. These terms are used interchangeably in the Bible, which is why we use pastor and elder synonymously. The qualifications of elders include high moral character, spiritual maturity, and faithfulness in leadership and teaching (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9, CSB).

Our elders are called to lead and shepherd the church by preaching and teaching the Word, protecting the church from false doctrine, exhorting with sound teaching, praying, caring for the sick, and overseeing the ministries of the church. These responsibilities include keeping each other accountable as elders. We see a plurality of elders used in scripture, which is why our elders/pastors share leadership at Beloved. (Acts 20:28-35; Titus 1:9; 1 Peter 5:1-2)

Some elders serve vocationally on staff, while others serve as lay elders, but all share equal responsibility and authority in shepherding the church.