Dear Speratus,

A quick reply

1. Elders are always elected by the congregation in the presbyterian system. They can be elected for life or a fixed term.

2. Yes.

3. It can do if the session can't sort things out. Presbyterian churches differ in whether the minister of a church (the teaching elder) is a member of the local church or of the presbytery. Depending on which way you go will affect the mechanics of how discipline is carried out.

4. Again this will vary. In most Reformed presbyterian churches the local congregation owns its property. Too many churches have been burned in liberal denominations, tried to leave, and found they couldn't take their property.

5. Let's say it's the most scriptural system! It would be a mistake to see precise details of how it works out in scripture, but the principle is there.

In Christ,

James.