Must An Elder's Children Be Christians?

Must An Elder's Children Be Christians?

Mr. Waddey:
We are in the process of selecting elders for our congregation. One of the brothers who desires the position has two children who are grown now. One is in his thirties but was never baptized and quit coming to church when he was in his teens. Could this brother serve as an elder in view of Paul's teaching about "believing children?"
-Damon

Dear Bro. Damon:
When writing of the qualifications we should look for in an elder of the church, Paul said, "having children that believe" (Tit. 1:6). The brother you mention has a child who is not a believer. I suspect if he is asked to serve there will be objections raised regarding this point. The point of this qualification is the prospective elder has demonstrated his ability to teach and guide those under his supervision by successfully bringing his children to Christ.

Sincerely,

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