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MarieP said:

We used to take a vote (in the tally the numbers, majority wins sense) on elders/pastors and deacons, but a few years ago the constitution was changed because of the conviction that it was not thoroughly Biblical on several grounds:

1. You never see a church voting for their elders (much less the color of the carpet) in the way most churches do. The church is NOT a democracy. Elders and deacons are not chosen by the congregation but by Christ. The local church does, however, recognize them.

Marie,

In most Reformed churches the vote of the congregation is simply a confirmation of those men the elders have put forth as biblically qualified. It's quite different than a democratic approach which allows anyone to be nominated and elected by the congregation.

As you may have noticed from my previous reply I was wondering if it would still be appropriate to cast lots in making the final selection from among the nominees as opposed to a congregational vote. Some feel casting lots would allow God alone to determine His choice. Since it's not mentioned in the Bible as a method of selecting leaders after Penticost it may be because all true believers being endowed by the Holy Spirit can discern the man from among the nominees that would be most appropriate to serve at this time. Thus their vote allows their voice to be heard and confirms the man from among the candidates the elders have presented.

In all these approaches it is essential to trust the Lord for providing the leadership His Church will need.


Wes

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. - Isaac Watts