The Best 50+ Bible Verses About Elders

Exploring the wisdom and guidance found in the Bible can be a source of comfort and direction. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that focus on elders, offering insights into their roles and significance.

Whether you're seeking inspiration or understanding, these verses provide a rich tapestry of biblical teachings. Each verse sheds light on the importance of elders in the community and their spiritual journey.

50 Bible Verses About Elders

10 Bible Verses on Elders in Leadership

• "Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine." — 1 Timothy 5:17
• "Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you." — Hebrews 13:17
• "So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed." — Acts 14:23
• "The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly." — 1 Peter 5:1-2
• "For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you." — Titus 1:5
• "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." — James 5:14
• "And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves." — 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
• "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood." — Acts 20:28
• "This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work." — 1 Timothy 3:1
• "Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses." — 1 Timothy 5:19

10 Bible Verses on Qualities of Elders

• "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach." — 1 Timothy 3:2
• "If a man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of dissipation or insubordination." — Titus 1:6
• "Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly." — 1 Peter 5:2
• "Not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous." — 1 Timothy 3:3
• "For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money." — Titus 1:7
• "One who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?)." — 1 Timothy 3:4-5
• "Not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil." — 1 Timothy 3:6
• "Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money." — 1 Timothy 3:8
• "And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient." — 2 Timothy 2:24
• "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." — Galatians 5:22-23

10 Bible Verses on Elders and Wisdom

• "Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety." — Proverbs 11:14
• "Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established." — Proverbs 15:22
• "Plans are established by counsel; By wise counsel wage war." — Proverbs 20:18
• "For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety." — Proverbs 24:6
• "Wisdom strengthens the wise More than ten rulers of the city." — Ecclesiastes 7:19
• "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." — James 1:5
• "A wise man will hear and increase learning, And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel." — Proverbs 1:5
• "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise." — Proverbs 12:15
• "By pride comes nothing but strife, But with the well-advised is wisdom." — Proverbs 13:10
• "Listen to counsel and receive instruction, That you may be wise in your latter days." — Proverbs 19:20

10 Bible Verses on Responsibilities of Elders

• "Nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." — 1 Peter 5:3
• "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears." — Acts 20:28-31
• "If any believing man or woman has widows, let them relieve them, and do not let the church be burdened, that it may relieve those who are really widows." — 1 Timothy 5:16
• "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." — 2 Timothy 4:2
• "Holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict." — Titus 1:9
• "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all." — 1 Thessalonians 5:14
• "Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct." — Hebrews 13:7
• "(For if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?)." — 1 Timothy 3:5
• "But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness." — 1 Timothy 6:11
• "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." — 2 Timothy 2:2

10 Bible Verses on Elders in Community

• "Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question." — Acts 15:2
• "And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues." — 1 Corinthians 12:28
• "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." — Ephesians 4:11-12
• "Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons." — Philippians 1:1
• "Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers." — 1 Timothy 5:1
• "Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for 'God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.'" — 1 Peter 5:5
• "Greet all those who rule over you, and all the saints. Those from Italy greet you." — Hebrews 13:24
• "Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss." — 1 Thessalonians 5:26
• "He who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness." — Romans 12:8
• "I urge you, brethren—you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints—that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us." — 1 Corinthians 16:15-16

What Does the Bible Say About Elders

The Bible offers a rich perspective on the role and significance of elders. These verses highlight the importance of elders in various aspects of life, from leadership to wisdom and community involvement. Understanding these teachings can help us appreciate the value of elders and their contributions to our spiritual and communal lives.

One key theme is the leadership role of elders. Verses like 1 Timothy 5:17 and Hebrews 13:17 emphasize the responsibility of elders to guide and oversee the community. They are called to lead with integrity and dedication, ensuring the well-being of those they serve. This leadership is not about power but about serving others with joy and commitment.

Another important theme is the qualities that elders should possess. The Bible outlines specific traits such as being blameless, temperate, and hospitable (1 Timothy 3:2). These qualities ensure that elders can effectively shepherd their communities, providing a positive example for others to follow. Their character is a reflection of their dedication to God's teachings.

Wisdom is also a significant aspect of an elder's role. Proverbs 11:14 and James 1:5 highlight the value of seeking and sharing wisdom. Elders are seen as sources of wise counsel, helping others navigate life's challenges. Their experience and understanding are invaluable resources for the community.

Lastly, the Bible speaks about the responsibilities of elders within the community. Verses like 1 Peter 5:3 and Acts 20:28-31 remind us that elders are to be examples to the flock, caring for and protecting those entrusted to them. Their role is to nurture and support, ensuring the spiritual growth and well-being of the community.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Elders

Applying Bible teachings about elders to daily life can bring profound changes. These verses offer guidance on leadership, wisdom, and community involvement, which can enrich our spiritual journey.

• Start your day with a prayer for wisdom and guidance, asking God to help you embody the qualities of an elder.
• Practice hospitality by inviting friends or neighbors over for a meal, reflecting the welcoming nature of elders.
• Seek out opportunities to mentor or support younger members of your community, sharing your experiences and wisdom.
• Attend church regularly and participate in community activities, showing your commitment to the well-being of others.
• Read and meditate on Bible verses about elders, allowing their teachings to shape your actions and decisions.
• Be a good example in your daily interactions, demonstrating patience, kindness, and integrity.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding your steps and helping you grow. Embracing these principles can lead to a more fulfilling and faith-driven life.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.