The Role and Significance of Elders in the Old Testament
The elders, or older, experienced leaders of Israel, held an important position in Israelite society throughout the Old Testament period. They served in various leadership capacities as representatives, judges, advisors, and authorities for the people. Their wisdom and experience were highly valued in a culture that respected age and maturity.
In the Patriarchal Period
The concept of eldership has its origins in the patriarchal period with the heads of the family clans. For example, when Jacob and his household settled in Egypt, the pharaoh honored the elders among them when they came to plead for food (Gen 50:7). The book of Exodus tells us that Moses brought together the elders of Israel to convey the Lord’s message and instructions (Ex 3:16, 4:29). The elders functioned as family and tribal leaders, with authority over their clan.
During the Exodus
As the Israelites left Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness, the elders continued to exercise leadership. Seventy elders were chosen to help Moses govern the people and share his burden (Num 11:16-25). These elders prophesied when they received the spirit, showing their authority. The elders also represented the people before God and ate covenant meals in God’s presence (Ex 18:12, 24:1). They assisted Moses in judging disputes between the Israelites (Ex 18:13-26).
In the Promised Land
After entering Canaan under Joshua’s leadership, the elders of Israel retained an advisory role. They reminded the people of God’s mighty acts on their behalf (Josh 24:1). Along with the priests and judges, the elders governed the nation during this period (Jos 8:33, 23:2, 24:31).
During the time of the judges, the elders ruled locally by tribes and clans. They sought military leaders like Gideon and gave them authority to deliver Israel (Judg 8:14-16). The elders of Succoth and Peniel refused to help Gideon and were punished for neglecting justice and mercy (Judg 8:4-21).
Under the Kings
The elders continued to be influential as advisors to Israel’s kings. David instructed Solomon to follow the guidance of the elders (1 Kings 2:3). King Rehoboam rejected the elders’ advice and caused the kingdom to divide (1 Kings 12:3-15). King Hezekiah consulted the elders during times of national crisis and revival (2 Kings 20:5, 2 Chron 29:2-3). The elders functioned as local magistrates, resolving difficult legal cases (Deut 21:2-9, Ruth 4:1-11).
However, the prophets often had to challenge the elders for their lack of justice and faithfulness as leaders over the people (Is 3:14, Lam 2:10, 4:16, Ezek 7:26). The elders failed to protect the helpless and live righteous lives. Yet God promised that he would restore elders who would lead justly and walk faithfully (Is 37:2, Jer 19:1).
In Exile and Post-Exilic Periods
The elders continued to have influence during the exile in Babylon and after some of the Jews returned to Judah. The elders came to hear God’s word from Ezekiel during his prophetic warnings (Ezek 14:1, 20:1). Later, the elders of the Jews in exile consulted God through Ezekiel about their situation (Ezra 8:1). They still functioned as spiritual leaders of the community.
Back in Jerusalem, the elders worked alongside Ezra the priest as he read the Law and called the people to repentance (Neh 8:1-8). The elders had authority to sign official documents like the covenant renewal (Neh 9:38). They assisted the governor Zerubbabel and the high priest Joshua (Hag 1:1, 2:2). So they retained an important, if deteriorating role among post-exilic Israel.
Significance and Legacy
The elders clearly played a vital part in Israelite society from the patriarchal period to the post-exilic community. Their wisdom and experience lent stability and direction through all the dramatic events of Israel’s history. While prophets and kings came and went, the elders endured as trusted advisors, local magistrates, and representatives of the people before God. Of course, they were imperfect and sometimes abused power as the prophets declared. But they passed on tribal and family traditions and reminded Israel of their covenant duties. Jesus modeled respect to elders, though challenging their wrong traditions (Matt 15:1-9, 23:1-7). So the elders left a legacy of leadership to emulate and pitfalls to avoid. Their positive role was valued in families, clans, and the houses of worship down to the New Testament church.
The Elders as Family Heads and Clan Leaders
The concept of “elders” or “older ones” (zekenim in Hebrew) arises naturally in most societies as certain members advance in years and experience. Extended families and clans look to these elders for guidance, governance, and decisions for the family unit.
In the Old Testament, elders functioned as patriarchal heads of their family clans among the Hebrew tribes and broader Israelite community. Each family and tribe respected and heeded the voice of their elders (Ex 3:16, Judg 8:14). They sought wisdom from those advanced in years and maturity. Their status was not just tied to age but to heads of households, who represented their clan before God and within the nation.
Some key insights on elders as clan heads:
– Elders acted as spokesmen for their tribes and handled negotiations like the elders from Gilead who approached Jephthah to lead them against the Ammonites (Judg 11:1-11).
– Elders settled legal disputes as wise heads of families, like the elders of Bethlehem who witnessed land sales (Ruth 4:1-12).
– Elders determined marriage rights regarding widows, as in the case of the unnamed kinsman-redeemer who deferred to Boaz (Ruth 4:1-12).
– Parents expected children to respect and obey the elders of the land (1 Pet 1:14, Prov 16:31).
– Gatherings of village elders were common at city gates, where matters of justice were decided (Ruth 4:1-2).
– Their wisdom and counsel was sought out, since elders had lived through experiences others had not (Job 12:20, 29:7-16).
– All major decisions required the consent of the elders who represented the extended families (Josh 19:49-51).
So elders functioned as more than just older tribe members. They were patriarchs over households, with acknowledged authority and influence. Their family leadership lent stability to Israelite society through every era.
The Elders as Advisors to Leaders
In addition to clan leadership, Israelite elders served as trusted advisors to various authorities and rulers throughout Israel’s history. The wisdom of age was highly valued in this ancient culture.
Moses, for example, could not bear the burden of judging every dispute alone, so he appointed elders to share leadership (Ex 18:13-27). These elders were known for wisdom and able to guide the people justly (Deut 1:9-18).
Likewise, Joshua gathered the elders when it came time to renew the covenant so that Israel would serve the Lord (Josh 24:1-13). The elders advised the commander Barak to pursue the Lord’s direction from Deborah the prophetess (Judg 4:1-10). They also reminded the people of the Lord’s faithfulness in giving them the promised land (Josh 24:1-13).
During the monarchy, King David ordered his son Solomon to heed the counsel of the elders so his reign would be successful (1 Kings 2:1-4). Unfortunately, Rehoboam rejected the wisdom of the elders and caused a tragic kingdom split (1 Kings 12:1-15). But righteous King Jehoshaphat followed the elders’ advice and appointed judges in the land (2 Chron 19:8-11).
So the elders provided an important advisory role to judges, prophets, and kings throughout Israel’s history. Their spiritual guidance and practical wisdom lent prudence to decision-making that impacted the entire nation.
The Elders as Representatives Before God
Beyond clan leadership and advising authorities, Israelite elders acted as official representatives before God Himself. They could approach God’s presence and make requests on behalf of the people.
For example, Moses gathered 70 elders to prepare them to meet with God, and the Lord put His Spirit upon them (Num 11:16-25). These elders accompanied Moses and worshipped at a distance as he drew near to God to receive the 10 Commandments (Ex 24:1-9).
The elders also represented the people when making important covenants. Joshua assembled the leaders so they could respond on behalf of Israel (Josh 24:1). They covenanted along with the kings to seek the Lord wholeheartedly (2 Chron 15:9-15).
When Josiah restored worship and read the rediscovered Book of the Law, he made a covenant before the elders to obey God’s Word (2 Kings 23:1-3). So they acted representatively to renew Israel’s vows of obedience on major occasions.
Therefore, the elders operated as respected spiritual leaders and representatives before God Himself. Their age and wisdom allowed them to be examples of righteousness and lead the community in worship and covenant faithfulness.
The Elders as Judges and Magistrates
An important practical function of elders within the Israelite community was judging legal cases and settling disputes between members. Moses first delegated judges among the existing elders to help bear the burden of settling issues among the people (Ex 18:13-26). These men were already respected for maturity and wisdom.
In each city gate, the communal gathering place, elders would assemble as magistrates to adjudicate civil disputes and other criminal cases (Deut 22:15). Difficult legal problems could be brought before the elders for a decision (Deut 17:8-9). They pronounced judgments and decided penalties based on God’s Law.
For example, the elders judged the case of a young virgin whose husband falsely accused her (Deut 22:13-19). They determined how inheritance rights should be carried out (Ruth 4:1-12). Even false prophets could be brought before the elders for judgment (Deut 13:1-5).
The elders’ wisdom and discernment were vital to the everyday function of justice in Israelite society. They modeled impartiality, fairness, and faithfulness to God’s Law in their judgments (Lev 19:15). Appointing elders as judges lent stability and integrity to the legal system.
The Failures of Elders and God’s Response
While elders in Israel often functioned admirably as leaders, advisors, representatives, and judges, at times they failed in their duties before God. The Bible presents an honest picture of the elders’ flaws and sins over time.
The prophet Isaiah condemned the elders of Jerusalem for their greed and failure to seek justice for the oppressed (Is 3:14). Jeremiah accused them of idolatry and leading the people away from the Lord (2:26). Ezekiel pronounced coming judgment on the wicked elders who offered idols as sacrifices and defiled the sanctuary (Ezek 8:1-18). The elders failed to be models of righteousness.
When Judah was conquered by Babylon, the elders stopped providing sound guidance (Lam 1:19, 4:16). Jeremiah rebuked the elders for their apathy and lack of spiritual leadership (Lam 5:12). So the exile came partly as God’s judgment on the elders’ unfaithfulness.
Yet the prophets also brought a message of hope. God promised that He would restore Israel and appoint new elders who would be faithful shepherds over the people (Jer 3:15). Ezekiel declared God would purge the leaders and give the nation wise elders once again (34:1-10).
So God dealt justly with the rebellious elders, but also showed mercy in renewing righteous eldership. The Post-exilic elders did, in fact, lead in rebuilding Jerusalem and guiding the struggling community (Ezra 5:5, 6:7). So God graciously restored elders to positions of influence.
Principles for Elders and Leaders Today
The elders occupy an interesting place throughout Israel’s story. Their example provides many principles that remain relevant for community leaders and elders today.
Some key principles we can take away:
– With greater age comes greater responsibility to wisely counsel others. Eldership is a calling more than a position.
– Leaders must represent others fairly and selflessly, not pursuing selfish interests.
– Elders should be known for integrity and justice that reflects God’s righteous character.
– The best leaders exhibit spiritual maturity marked by compassion and God’s grace toward others.
– No leader is above God’s corrective discipline if they lead people astray from His Word.
– Churches must identify and train elders who can provide spiritual nourishment from the Word (1 Tim 3:2, Titus 1:9-16).
– Current leaders should be preparing younger generations for future roles as elders and advisors within the community of faith.
Though imperfect, the elders of Israel provide us with insights for mentoring, leading, and exercising responsible authority within our own faith communities. If we learn from their examples, both positive and negative, we can uphold the calling of eldership for God’s glory.
The Role of Elders in Worship and Teaching
Elders in ancient Israel served a vital function in guiding corporate worship and instructing people in God’s Law. As spiritual leaders, they modeled piety and led community gatherings centered around worship.
Moses met with groups of elders regularly to teach them God’s commands and statutes so that they could instruct the people properly (Ex 18:20). The elders were expected to know the Law thoroughly in order to judge righteously and direct the nation in obedience (Deut 1:13-18).
Likewise, Joshua assembled all the Israelite elders so they could hear directly from God’s Word and learn to revere the Lord (Josh 24:1-13). King Jehoshaphat sent elders throughout Judah to teach people the Book of the Law (2 Chron 17:7-9). Their teaching ministry helped renew the covenant.
When the Book of the Law was rediscovered during Josiah’s reign, he gathered the elders to hear it read aloud, then covenanted along with them to obey it (2 Kings 23:1-3). So the elders constantly promoted teaching God’s Word among the people.
The elders also participated actively in leading worship gatherings and festivals. Elders from the clan of Elizaphan assisted in transporting the ark to Jerusalem for worship (1 Chr 15:24-29). They joined the tribal leaders in observing offerings and feasts at the restored temple under Hezekiah (2 Chr 5:4-6).
Ezekiel condemned the elders who defiled the sanctuary with idol worship, but also envisioned a future with elders leading righteous worship once again (Ezek 8:11-16, 44:24, 46:2). So elders played key public roles in guiding corporate worship and instruction.
As those advanced in wisdom and maturity, Israel’s elders taught God’s truth and led his people in honoring Him. They provided spiritual nourishment, celebrated God’s goodness, facilitated offerings, judged sin, and modeled wholehearted commitment to pleasing the Lord. The legacy of elder-shepherded worship continued into the early church (Acts 20:17, Jam 5:14, 1 Tim 5:17-19).
The Continuity of Elders into the New Testament Era
While the role of elders adapted over the various eras of Israel’s history, elders remained vitally important figures within the leadership structure through the New Testament period. Glimpses within the gospels and epistles reveal that elders still functioned as respected community leaders, now within the framework of Roman occupation.
The Jewish ruling council known as the Sanhedrin operated as the highest governing body over the Jews during this time. The Sanhedrin was made up of chief priests, scribes, and elders from influential families in Jerusalem and surrounding areas (Matt 26:57, Mark 14:53). They exercised authority in legal and religious matters.
Both Jesus and the early church movement interacted with these Sanhedrin elders who sought to constrain the growth of the fledgling Christian sect. The elders interrogated Jesus and handed him over to Pilate (Matt 27:12, Mark 15:1). They later arrested Peter and John for their preaching (Acts 4:1-22). Stephen gave his testimony before the enraged elders just before his martyrdom (Acts 6:12).
Yet even these hostile elders could not halt the advance of the gospel. The continuity of elders within the Jerusalem church is evident as the apostles laid hands on spiritually mature men to lead local congregations (Acts 14:23, Titus 1:5). Elder leadership guided the historic Jerusalem Council regarding Gentile salvation (Acts 15:1-29).
So while Jewish elders opposed the gospel, wise elders within the early church promoted unity and spiritually nourished believers. Qualified, servant-hearted elders were the model for church leadership that continues today (1 Tim 3:1-7).
Conclusion
In summary, Old Testament elders functioned prominently as family heads, advisors to leaders, judges, teachers, worship leaders, and representatives before God. Their respected status arose from advanced age, practical wisdom, governance over households, and demonstrated spiritual maturity.
Yet they were far from perfect, often exploiting their influence and failing to lead Israel in righteousness. God punished unfaithful elders through exile but also graciously restored eldership. Elders continued into the New Testament era, though now largely opposed to the gospel.
Nevertheless, elders provide us with timeless principles for community leadership marked by justice, integrity, compassion, and spiritual wisdom. When directed by a heart devoted to God, elders can profoundly bless a community. The legacy of righteous elders endures as a high calling worthy of honor.
