We've replaced elders with AI, wisdom with expertise, and proven character with polished brands, and we're all worse for it. Here's what I intend to do about it.
Do you delineate between πρεσβύτερος and ἐπίσκοπος or ποιμήν? Have you considered that Paul might be talking about ordained overseers vs older dudes who are merely wise and righteous? Were hands laid on the city gate older guys? If so by who? We know ordination did involve the laying on of hands from Apostles. If those are different things, how might that impact your desire? Are you mostly looking for a mentor, and overseer, or a shepherd? Which would you like to be
Thank you for these questions! All ones I’m wrestling with. Honestly, no, I have not yet worked through the differences between those words yet, so thank you so pushing me that direction. I do know there’s a difference between the office and the qualifications for eldership. Right now I’m still sitting in the potential impact of more men, including myself, who would aspire to the noble task of becoming an elder and intentionally pursue its qualifications regardless of whether or not we are appointed to the official office of elder. But I do need a better understanding of the distinction and change my language to follow. Maybe my next post. Thank you, Sonny!
Totally agree that more civic leaders, judges, mentors, and representatives of the community that also meet the requirements of a NT ecclesial Elder would be better for our city, country. A delineation between the one that is natural authority based on age, reputation vs the laying on of hands (supernatural) might be helpful too. In the past ecclesial eldership was even be imputed to younger men, (like Timothy) if called by God (and therefore empowered by God) to lead. I think you'd make a fantastic City elder. If there were an election, you'd have my vote.
Do you delineate between πρεσβύτερος and ἐπίσκοπος or ποιμήν? Have you considered that Paul might be talking about ordained overseers vs older dudes who are merely wise and righteous? Were hands laid on the city gate older guys? If so by who? We know ordination did involve the laying on of hands from Apostles. If those are different things, how might that impact your desire? Are you mostly looking for a mentor, and overseer, or a shepherd? Which would you like to be
Thank you for these questions! All ones I’m wrestling with. Honestly, no, I have not yet worked through the differences between those words yet, so thank you so pushing me that direction. I do know there’s a difference between the office and the qualifications for eldership. Right now I’m still sitting in the potential impact of more men, including myself, who would aspire to the noble task of becoming an elder and intentionally pursue its qualifications regardless of whether or not we are appointed to the official office of elder. But I do need a better understanding of the distinction and change my language to follow. Maybe my next post. Thank you, Sonny!
Totally agree that more civic leaders, judges, mentors, and representatives of the community that also meet the requirements of a NT ecclesial Elder would be better for our city, country. A delineation between the one that is natural authority based on age, reputation vs the laying on of hands (supernatural) might be helpful too. In the past ecclesial eldership was even be imputed to younger men, (like Timothy) if called by God (and therefore empowered by God) to lead. I think you'd make a fantastic City elder. If there were an election, you'd have my vote.