For Church Elders

Elders Must Be Able to Teach

Scripture calls elders to shepherd, oversee, and teach. Deepen your theological knowledge to fulfill your calling with confidence and biblical faithfulness.

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Bite-sized lessons | 30 min/day | 100% self-paced

A Sobering Comparison

Consider the training requirements for different professions...

Barber / Cosmetologist

Licensed professional

1,000-1,500 hours of initial training required

4-14 hours continuing education every 2 years

License renewal mandatory by law

Responsibility: Cutting hair and maintaining hygiene standards

Source: Texas TDLR, Iowa DIAL

THE GREATER CALLING

Church Elder

Shepherd and overseer

54% of churches don't prioritize training next generation leaders

No mandatory theological training required

Scripture requires elders to be "able to teach"

Responsibility: Shepherding souls, guarding doctrine, teaching the Word

Source: Barna Group

"If a barber must train to cut hair,
how much more should elders train to shepherd souls?"

The Reality Elders Face

Research reveals the challenges and opportunities in elder ministry today.

54%

of churches don't prioritize training next generation leaders

Barna Group

85%

of elders feel inadequately prepared for theological questions

LifeWay Research

1 in 3

churches lack a formal elder training process

Christianity Today

78%

of trained elders report greater confidence in shepherding

LifeWay Research

Biblical eldership requires knowledge of Scripture, sound doctrine, and wisdom for shepherding. Training isn't optional--it's essential for faithful oversight.

Built for Your Schedule

Training That Fits Your Life

You're already working full-time. You're already serving at church. We get it. That's why every course is designed for busy elders.

30 Min/Day

Or just 1 hour per week. Bite-sized lessons fit into your lunch break or commute.

100% Self-Paced

No deadlines. No pressure. Learn at your own speed, on your own time.

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Watch on your phone, tablet, or computer. At home, at work, anywhere.

Pick Up Anytime

Your progress is saved. Life interrupts? No problem. Resume where you left off.

"I can finally grow spiritually without neglecting my family or job."

— What our students tell us most often

See What You'll Experience

Your Learning Experience

Professional video lessons, interactive quizzes, and community discussions—all in one place.

Lesson 3: The Doctrine of Scripture

12:34

28:00

1.5x

Building Your Theology

Lesson 3 of 12 • Dr. Richard Pratt

2 of 3 lessons complete

Lesson Quiz

Test your understanding

Question 2 of 5

What is the primary purpose of systematic theology?

To study the Bible chronologically

To organize biblical truths into logical categories

To translate the Bible into modern languages

Discussion Forum

Connect with fellow students

12 replies

Pastor James M. 2 hours ago

This lesson really helped me understand how to approach difficult passages. The framework Dr. Pratt provides is so practical!

Sarah R. 1 hour ago

Agreed! I've already used this in my small group Bible study.

You

Your Progress: Building Your Theology

Keep going! You're making great progress.

25%

Complete

3/12

Lessons

2/4

Quizzes

Started Dec 15 Est. completion: Jan 20

The Biblical Qualifications

Scripture is clear about the character and competency required of elders.

An overseer must be above reproach... able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

1 Timothy 3:2-3 (ESV)

He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

Titus 1:9 (ESV)

Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight... being examples to the flock.

1 Peter 5:2-3 (ESV)

The office of elder carries immense responsibility. Are you equipped to teach sound doctrine and refute error?