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A Title on Many Lips, But Understood by Few
Wonderful question, isn’t it?
“Elder” is one of those titles you hear often in the Church of the Nazarene. But… who exactly is an elder? What do they do? How does someone even become one?
Whether you’re a life-long Nazarene or someone just getting to know the church, you’ll one day face this question—maybe from a curious visitor, a family member, or even from within your own church.
We decided to bring clarity straight from the most trusted source—the Church of the Nazarene Manual.
What the Church Manual Says
“An elder is a minister whose call of God to preach, gifts, and usefulness have been demonstrated and enhanced by proper training and experience…”
“…separated to the service of Christ through His church by the vote of a district assembly and by the solemn act of ordination, and thus has been fully invested to perform all functions of the Christian ministry.”
(Paragraph 526)
So, Who Is an Elder?
- An ordained minister who has:
- A clear call from God to preach.
- Proven gifts and character.
- Undergone proper training and experience.
- Chosen and confirmed by the district assembly.
- Empowered to perform all functions of Christian ministry.
What Does an Elder Do?
“The elder is to lead well in the church, to preach the Word, to administer the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and to solemnize matrimony…” (526.1)
In simple terms, elders:
- Preach the Word of God.
- Lead the church in spiritual and practical matters.
- Baptize believers and serve communion.
- Conduct weddings in the name of Jesus Christ.
How Does One Become an Elder?
It’s not a title that’s taken lightly. There’s a clear process:
- Call of God – A personal and undeniable call to ministry.
- Licensed for at least 3 years – No gaps in district license or ministry.
- Educational Path – Completed a validated course of study.
- Ministry Assignment – Must currently serve in an active ministry role.
- Recommendation – Approval from local church or District Advisory Board.
- District Approval – A two-thirds vote from the district assembly.
- Ordination – A sacred moment, led by the general superintendent.
What About Recognition of Ministers from Other Churches?
Yes, it’s possible:
- Their previous credentials can be recognized.
- A new credential is issued under the Nazarene church.
- The original certificate is returned with an official stamp or inscription confirming the change. (527.2)
In Summary:
- An elder in the Church of the Nazarene is more than a preacher.
- It’s a lifetime calling, affirmed by education, character, and church authority.
- It’s not a title given, but a ministry lived out with faithfulness and passion.
Still wondering if you or someone you know might be on this path?
Talk to your pastor or district leaders—they’ll walk with you on the journey.
Let’s continue raising informed leaders.
Share this post with someone asking, “Who’s really an elder?”—and let them find the answer for themselves.
