Presbyterianism believes in the right of the congregation to choose their ordained officers — elders and deacons. This right is based on our understanding of the church. Presbyterians believe that Jesus — the only Head of the church — is the source of all power. After all, upon his resurrection Jesus declared: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).

Lately, I’ve been lending a helping hand to a congregation who are looking for a new pastor. This can be exciting, but it can also be difficult. It’s a process that requires self-evaluation and honesty about strengths and weaknesses. It takes patience as the wheel often turns slowly, and it takes a great deal of wisdom to find the right man for the ministry. As I have gone through and continue to go through this with them, I’m reminded of how thankful I am for Presbyterianism. That’s because Presbyterianism values as equal the voice of every member in the selection of a pastor.

“Presbyterianism” is a big word. Simply defined, it comes from the word “presbyter” which is the biblical word for “elder.” It’s the design of Jesus and the pattern of the Apostles that the church’s life and ministry be overseen by a plurality of elders. This is one important aspect of Presbyterianism. The elders are the leadership who shepherd the congregation according to the Bible, and are the spiritual leaders the congregation is called to respect and submit to in the Lord (see 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 and Hebrews 13:17).

Practically, that means that the elders make almost every decision. From day-to-day things like setting the worship schedule to deciding who can and cannot preach and teach in the congregation. It also includes other important decisions like accepting people into membership, disciplining those who need correction in life or doctrine, and examining and ordaining elders and deacons in the congregation. Presbyterianism isn’t a democracy where things are decided by popular vote, but is very much elder-led. But there’s an extremely important part of the church’s life and ministry that elders don’t decide.

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