“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.” I Timothy 5:17

There are two types of elders, teaching elders and ruling elders. The elders jointly oversee the government and spiritual oversight of the Church, including teaching.

Only those elders who are specially gifted, called and trained by God to preach may serve as teaching elders (pastors).

Ruling elders possess the same authority and eligibility to office in the courts of the Church as teaching elders. They should, moreover, cultivate zealously their own ability to teach the Bible. 

From left to right Ruling Elders: Eugene Seals, Jr., Roy Sparks, Gary Bradley

Emerita (Not Pictured):

Robert K. Hawkins
Norris Parker