The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum How are Elders Trained?

I believe that part of the justification given for dividing the Eldership into two distinct, at least functional, offices is that it was to coincide with the three offices of Christ:

Prophet = preaching Elder
Priest = Deacon
King = ruling Elder

It's a fascinating idea, but one which I don't find very strong support in its favor. I have no qualms with recognizing the diversity of gifts given, i.e., some men may be gifted in the area of public preaching more than others. But my objection, which apparently is shared by others here as well, is the additional division of authority among the Elders, thus effectively making the "pastor" (preaching elder) a higher authority. He should be one among equals, IMHO.

And just an aside, this same allocation of authority within the Eldership seems to also apply to the distinction between Elders and Deacons. In many churches I have been involved with, Deacons are looked upon as "second-class" officers, which bothered me to no little extent. Any thoughts on this?

In His grace,