Before we consider the qualifications of an elder, we must first consider what an elder is. In 1 Timothy 3:1, Paul calls the leaders “overseers” or it can be translated “bishops.” In some denominations, elders, pastors, and bishops have different roles. Bishops oversee pastors in a region or a city, and pastors oversee elders at a church. However, in Scripture, these titles refer to the same position. We can discern this by the fact that these titles are often used interchangeably in Scripture (cf. Titus 1:5, 7; Acts 20:17, 28). Consider 1 Peter 5:1-2:
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; (NIV 1984)
