Meaning
An elder is an older person; in biblical contexts, the term also refers to a person recognized as a leader or representative within a community.
Biblical Usage
In Scripture, elder can refer simply to an older person, but it is also used as a title for recognized leaders or representatives of a people, city, congregation, or community.
Elders appear among the leaders of Israel from the time of Moses onward. In the New Testament, elders are also recognized among local churches. The meaning of the term is determined by its context.
Key References
- Exodus 3:16
- Exodus 24:9-11
- Numbers 11:16-17
- Deuteronomy 31:28
- Ruth 4:2-11
- Joshua 23:2
- Joshua 24:31
- Judges 2:7
- 1 Samuel 30:26
- 1 Kings 8:1-3
- Acts 14:23
- 1 Timothy 5:17-20
- Titus 1:5
Related Terms
- Leader
- Ruler
- Judge
- Governor
- Priest
- Assembly
- Congregation
- Authority
- Israel