Recently we were asked to facilitate an elders conference on 'the Biblical role of the elder'. We liked the title as it limited our freedom regarding sources. It is all to easy to quote today's 'experts' and almost ignore the ancient original source. Our approach was to examine the main Biblical texts relating to leadership, and specifically eldership, in the church. Once we had identified the various functions we began to classify them under a few headings. The result was only two categories: Management ( a more technical term for leadership) and Shepherding (the more personable term). It was clear from this that any attempt to consider leadership in the church should include both of these functions.
The best term to capture these Biblical principles is 'Enabling' or 'Empowering' style leadership. We have developed a seminar for all within a position of leadership which presents an overview of empowering leadership principles designed to equip every believer to serve effectively. (1 evening or half day.)
