It would also be a safeguard for both the eldership and the ministry. In other words, such a practice might allay the fears that the spectre of an actual working, pastoral, biblical eldership seems to raise in the minds of all too many ministers. It could also be an invaluable training ground for future elders who had learned from godly men how the pastoral side of the eldership should be conducted. We give no training of any kind to elders and even conferences on the eldership, or the work of the elder, are novel in the Scottish context. If what I am saying sounds like the 'counsels of perfection', and impracticable for some situations, it should still be regarded as the biblical norm towards which we begin to strive, and for which we work and pray in all our varied situations.
Regularity is of greater importance than frequency.
They should also be responsible for praying for the people under their care and for keeping the minister informed of any special need for his pastoral attention. The eldership and evangelism One further area of eldership work requiring renovation amongst us is evangelism. The general needs will be similar everywhere but with specific aspects particular to each locality. These demand, and should have, the prayerful concern and practical planning of every Kirk Session. The congregation not evangelizing its community has forfeited its right to exist.