Elders can only communicate the authority inherent in the word. Much of the elder's work involves the act of teaching . However, elders do have authority to provide for the implementation of Christ's will in the collective work of the local congregation. They have the responsibility and authority to make whatever decisions are necessary in the congregational carrying out of scriptural teaching. Godly elders exercise this authority lovingly, considerately, and in consultation with their fellow Christians.
Submission involves yielding to the judgment of the eldership.
Elders' qualifications render them eminently capable of making judgments that are wise. The eldership exercises its oversight within certain scriptural limitations. The oversight of elders is limited to the time during which they independently are qualified to serve and are appointed . Elders oversee all the work of the congregation of which they are members. Elders oversee only the work of the congregation of which they are members.