Qualifications

• A desire to serve (1 Timothy 3:1)
• An Elder must aspire to and have the heart for the work of the office of Elder.
• A life above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Lead by example and demonstrate a lifestyle free of the pattern of sin. 
• Husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:2)
• If married, he must be a devoted spouse.
• Temperate (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Self-controlled 
• Sensible (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Wise, balanced in judgment, and biblically discerning.
• Respectable (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Demonstrates a well-ordered life and honorable behavior.
• Hospitable (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Unselfish in personal resources and willing to share God’s blessings with others.
• Able to Teach (1 Timothy 3:2)
• Able to read and understand God’s Word, communicate it, and bring biblical application to life.
• Not addicted to wine or strong drink (1 Timothy 3:3)
• Free from addictions and willing to limit their Christian liberties for the sake of others.
• Not pugnacious (1 Timothy 3:3)
• Gentle, patient, and able to exercise self-control in difficult situations. 
• Peaceable (1 Timothy 3:3)
• Not given to quarreling or selfish arguments. 
• Free from the love of money (1 Timothy 3:3)
• Not preoccupied with amassing material gain, not greedy, or out for sordid gain.
• Manages his household and Children (1 Timothy 3:4)
• He has a well-ordered household and a biblical family life. His children are obedient and submissive to the Lord.
• Not a New Convert (1 Timothy 3:6)
• He is not a new believer; has been a Christian long enough to demonstrate the reality of their conversion and the depth of their faith.
• Good Reputation with those outside the church (1 Timothy 3:7)
• Well-respected by unbelievers.

Other Qualifications and Responsibilities 

• An Elder of Praise Point Church must be a growing Christian man. They must be growing in their love, devotion, and understanding of the Chief Shepherd. (Hebrews 13:20)
• An Elder of Praise Point Church must be spending time in the Word of God, Prayer, and the primary functions of an Elder.
• Elders at Praise Point Church do not work in isolation and are extremely dependent on each other. We believe in the plurality of Elders leadership where the Elders are co-equals. This means that in the decision-making and ministry leading of the church in all areas, all Elders interact with and are accountable to each other.
• While some Elders may be more gifted in public speaking, all Elders will be engaged in teaching. Opportunities for teaching include weekend services, seminars, counseling, small groups, one-on-one discipleship, mid-week services, children’s and youth ministry, and more. 
• Elders will meet weekly to evaluate how the church is doing in accomplishing its mission as a church, and reaching its long-term and short-term goals. These weekly meetings will include Bible study and prayer in preparation for the weekend and mid-week services and ministries, strategic planning, recruiting and training future leadership, etc.
• An Elder of Praise Point Church will be required to sacrifice 40-45 hours a week to the ministry and people of the church. It is understood and highly valued that these hours do not only happen in the office. The work of the Elder is done both inside and outside the church. It is also understood and highly valued that an Elder does not neglect his family. Therefore, freedom is given on how these hours are achieved. Accountability for these hours of service is reported and held to accountability through weekly, monthly, and yearly assemblies of the Elders.