Approaching Leadership

You are convinced that biblical eldership (BE) is right, but either the pastor or the board does not agree. This is an extremely difficult situation. We can offer ideas, but you must ultimately be committed to the unity of the church and, as much as it is within you, respect and submit to the leadership. That doesn’t mean you should not attempt to share your conviction with the leadership, but it should affect how you do it.

If a pastor is involved, BE represents a huge impact on him. Not only will he feel that his livelihood is at stake, but his pastoral ministry has been his life, his passion, and his sacrifice. It is a lonely, often thankless and high-pressure “job.” He is to be honored for what he has done. When you approach him about your conviction of BE, do so with a spirit of humility and appreciation. Make it clear in all your interactions that your desire for BE is not a personal indictment against his leadership. Rather, it arises from a biblical conviction and the desire to honor God in how your church does leadership.

Approaching the Board

In some situations, it may be more appropriate to approach the board, for example, when the church is in between pastors. Consider how the board members may take it when you tell them about BE. They have sacrificed greatly in leading the church, carrying the weight of the problems and decisions of the church and often putting in long hours that have taken up their personal and family time.

A Few Pointers

The pastor may see BE through a different lens than you. Here are a few pointers for helping him see BE through the Lord’s eyes.

  • Ask the Lord to show you any conflicts or personal issues that may be hindering your efforts.
  • Give a copy of the Biblical Eldership booklet to the pastor and ask for a time when you can discuss it with him. Listen carefully to objections and concerns.
  • Make available to him testimonies of churches that have transitioned to BE, particularly in your denomination or like yours. Contact us as we may be able to put you in contact with some similar churches.
  • Pray the Holy Spirit would work in his heart.
  • Ask the Lord to give you a submissive attitude.
  • Ask God to give you grace, patience, and a submissive attitude.
  • Notice those who are most resistant. It is possible they are simply the most vocal and verbalizing what others may also be concerned about. This could be a blessing in disguise, as it may force you to patiently listen to and work through legitimate concerns.

Understand Other Factors at Work

Your goal should not be a “takeover” or ecclesiastical “coup” that results from a power struggle. The only worthy goal in pursuing BE for your church is to honor God and help his church be all he designed it to be. There is no place for personal pride and ambition.

If you have a a traditional pastor, make every effort to avoid the appearance of a power struggle.  “All things must be done properly and in an orderly manner” (1 Cor. 14:40).

If the move to BE is seen as a “hostile takeover,” conflict and disunity will result. Tread carefully so as to avoid suspicions of spiritual insubordination or lack of appreciation for past service.

Your pastor may seem defensive, but he may just need time to process a different way of thinking about church government. Some pastors have had negative experiences in working with elders and are therefore understandably hesitant. On the other hand, some pastors will find biblical eldership a huge relief because it means they will no longer have to shoulder the entire ministry load themselves.

Reasons why a pastor might resist:

  • Unconvinced of biblical basis for BE
  • Lack of good examples or testimonies of BE in action
  • Fear of being irrelevant
  • Fear of the unknown
  • Loss of control
  • Insecurity
  • Fear that he will lose his livelihood
  • Peer pressure from fellow pastors
  • Tradition
  • Enjoyment of the current prominence that comes with the position

Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • If there is a growing consensus for BE in your church (or among the board members), but the pastor is still resistant, address these issues with him directly, and if need be, have a group of godly men approach him about these things.
  • A change to BE would mean a change of the pastor’s “job description.” It therefore represents a huge impact on the ministry the church originally invited him to do.
  • As much as possible, work within the existing governing board and work for unity.

If Resistance Continues

We recommend patience. You may have been studying the subject of BE for a long time, maybe a few months or years. It is reasonable to allow others time to absorb, think, and pray about it. To push and agitate for quick responses would be unsubmissive and dishonoring to  those who are over you.

You will need discernment to know how frequently to bring up the issue without being annoying or contentious . We know of one church where the people waited 20 years for the right timing to implement BE! But it finally came, and the church remained intact.

What’s Next?

If the pastor has come to agree with BE, we recommend that he take the lead, becoming the catalyst for implementation. For this he would begin at the “Pastor” scenario (or see the menu).

If there is no pastor and the board comes to agreement, we recommend that they take the lead, with one of them becoming the catalyst for implementation. For this they would begin at the “Board” scenario (or see the menu).

If the pastor or board continues to resist, you will have to decide, with much prayer and discernment, how long you should remain patient and supportive of the leadership. If there comes a point where you feel you cannot remain in the church, we recommend that you explain to the pastor and/or board as graciously and clearly as possible why you are leaving, and then quietly go without causing any division or further conflict. However, we recommend not giving up too quickly. Someone has defined “patience” as giving God ample opportunity to work!