An elder is a spiritually mature man recognized by a local church for leadership, teaching, and oversight.
The New Testament presents elders as shepherds of God's people who are entrusted with guiding, protecting, and caring for the congregation.
The term emphasizes maturity, character, and wisdom rather than status or authority alone. Elders are expected to meet the qualifications outlined in Scripture and to lead by example as servants of Christ.
In the New Testament, the offices of elder, bishop, and pastor describe different aspects of the same leadership role.
See in Scripture: Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17–28; 1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:1–4