I am considering pursuing ordiantion (with the blessing of my Pastor) for ruling elder. During this time, I have been reading Samuel Miller's "The Ruling Elder." Next on the list is "The Reformed Pastor." Eventually, my desire is for the position of teaching elder (after seminary). My question is concerning the office of ruling elder:
1) Elders are supposed to be apt to teach. However, ruling elders are to NOT to teach OR administer the sacraments. They are to know their doctrine to shepard the flock, etc. What are the standards of their aptness to teach? Should they have the same qualifications in this area as a teaching elder? If not, how trained in doctrine/scriptures SHOULD they be?
2) After reading some PCA Position Papers on the office distinctions of elder, I realized that our church is in violation of the PCA in that our ruling elders administer the sacraments, and even during our Pastor's Sabbatical, each had their turn at preaching from the pulpit. Given this information, should I pursue this office? Should I bring this to session/presbytery?
Help!
1) Elders are supposed to be apt to teach. However, ruling elders are to NOT to teach OR administer the sacraments. They are to know their doctrine to shepard the flock, etc. What are the standards of their aptness to teach? Should they have the same qualifications in this area as a teaching elder? If not, how trained in doctrine/scriptures SHOULD they be?
2) After reading some PCA Position Papers on the office distinctions of elder, I realized that our church is in violation of the PCA in that our ruling elders administer the sacraments, and even during our Pastor's Sabbatical, each had their turn at preaching from the pulpit. Given this information, should I pursue this office? Should I bring this to session/presbytery?
Help!