Presbyters
Presbyters are church leaders referred to in the New Testament as elders. In many passages, they are associated with pastoral oversight, teaching, and spiritual care in the local church.
At a Glance
Presbyters are church leaders referred to in the New Testament as elders. In many passages, they are associated with pastoral oversight, teaching, and spiritual care in the local church.
Description
Presbyters, commonly translated “elders,” are recognized leaders in the New Testament church. They appear especially in connection with local congregational oversight, teaching, prayer, and shepherding care. In passages such as Acts 20 and Titus 1, many evangelical interpreters conclude that “elder” and “overseer” refer to the same office, while “pastor” describes the shepherding work associated with it; however, church traditions differ on how these terms should be structured in church polity. The safest biblical conclusion is that presbyters are spiritually mature leaders appointed to guide and guard the church under Christ, meeting clear moral and doctrinal qualifications.