Do Elders Exist Today?

DO ELDERS EXIST TODAY?

My considered answer is that there should be qualified, recognised elders (plural) in every local Assembly of the Lords' people. But, sadly, I have never known of a single elder who met every requirement demanded in the N.T. as to their acceptance for the onerous task of oversight. This is NOT a condemnation of any particular individual or company of the Lords' people, simply a personal observation over a period of nearly half a century while "gathering to the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

I would perhaps of preferred to ask, "Is it better to have unqualified elders, rather than none at all?" To this I confess I have no suitable answer. But I do believe that there is a phrase in the N.T. Scriptures that may enable those in local Assembly fellowship to experience real help.
THE PHRASE: Those who "take the lead among you."

There is a certain calibre of believers who are referred to in the N.T. as those who "take the lead," not exclusively elders.These are brethren, (and sisters, in their own sphere,) who have Christ-given spiritual gifts and abilities, and who are recognised as such. Because they do no "aspire to oversight,"  should not preclude them from assisting in guiding, guarding, teaching and leading the "flock." With the assistance of these spiritually-minded brethren, the weighty burden of maintaining a bright testimony for the One "Whom having not seen" we love, will be a little easier. Furthermore it may well help avoid prejudice and partiality, real banes found in our Assemblies, often caused by near family relationships, (nepotism,) and close friendships; these sometimes result in wrong decisions, especially, but not only, in matters of discipline. We must remember that it is not an elder, nor the entire oversight, who make decisions, determine reception to the Lords' Table, or who "put away" offenders. They must give counsel and guidance, of course. But Assembly decisions are the responsibility of the whole company, in subjection to the Lord of the Assemblies.  

Qualifications for Eldership: 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-4.

The phrase those who "Take the lead among you:" (J.N.D.) 1 Thessalonians 5:12,13;
1 Timothy 5:17.
The expression, "Your leaders: (J.N.D.) "Hebrews 13:7,17,24.

I must emphasise that this is my own PERSONAL view, and is not intended to promote any disrespect or rebelliousness towards elders in the meetings. It is with a view to help local Assemblies, especially those who have so few numerically, in fellowship.