What is a true Elder in the making?
The budding Elder is first and foremost spiritually reborn because they believe in Jesus, and hold firmly to his teachings, and try to keep practicing doing righteous things by his teachings, but then they also seek to preserve these teachings in order to encourage others by sound doctrine.
Elder—someone who is not only spiritually reborn but also committed to preserving, living, and teaching the truth of Jesus.
The Budding Elder: A Life Rooted in Christ
The budding Elder is, first and foremost, spiritually reborn, not just by profession but by genuine faith in Jesus, holding firmly to His teachings, and continually striving to live righteously according to His words. Their transformation is ongoing—they do not merely believe, but they apply and persist in walking in the truth.
As they grow, they take on a deeper responsibility: to preserve and uphold Jesus' teachings, ensuring that others are encouraged and strengthened through sound doctrine. They do not waver in their belief, nor do they abandon the pursuit of righteousness. Instead, they stand firm, teaching by example, continually seeking to align their own life with the truth, and helping others do the same.
A true Elder is not just a title—it is a life lived in steadfast faith, obedience, and love for the truth of Christ.