FIVE REASONS
To be CONFIDENT
References are found below.
BLESSING IN YOUR BAPTISM
In your baptism, God has called and named you as a beloved child. In addition you have been blessed with spiritual gifts to serve. You serve in the power of the Holy Spirit.
A FEW CORE PASSAGES
You do not need complicated words or confusing theology. You only need the Words of Institution, devout hearts, and simple praise and prayers. While there are other liturgical elements, they may be as simple or complex as the congregation enjoys. But the Words of Institution are simple and familiar to most Christian leaders. Even then there are options.
RULING AND TEACHING ELDER PARTNERSHIP
As a ruling elder, you are a spiritual leader of the church along with our pastors. You are on the same level with them spiritually.
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
You are being equipped with all the skills and knowledge that you need.
Over the years, your knowledge will increase and experiences will increase. But with basic training, you have all that you need.CALLED AND COMMISSIONED
In addition to your baptism, being a ruling elder, and receiving training, the larger church calls and commissions you for leadership.
References
BLESSING IN YOUR BAPTISM
The last advantage which our faith receives from baptism is its assuring us not only that we are ingrafted into the death and life of Christ, but so united to Christ himself as to be partakers of all his blessings.
John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion. Book 4, Chapter 15, Paragraph 6
A FEW CORE PASSAGES
Versions of The Words of Institution can be found in four passages in the Bible:
RULING AND TEACHING ELDER PARTNERSHIP
Ruling elders, together with ministers of the Word and Sacrament, exercise leadership, government, spiritual discernment, and discipline and have responsibilities for the life of a congregation as well as the whole church, including ecumenical relationships. (G-2.0301)
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
It is appropriate that a presbytery authorize and train ruling elders to administer the Lord’s Supper in the event of the absence of pastors (W-3.0410).
CALLED AND COMMISSIONED
It is appropriate that a presbytery authorize and train ruling elders to administer the Lord’s Supper in the event of the absence of pastors (W-3.0410).