Questions From Readers

How are elders and ministerial servants appointed in each congregation?

In the first century C.E., the apostle Paul told the elders who served in the congregation n Ephesus: "Pay attention to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the holy spirit has appointed you overseers, to shepherd the congregation of God, which he purchased with the blood of his own Son." (Acts 20:28) What role does holy spirit play in the appointment of elders and ministerial servants today?

First, holy spirit moved the Bible writers to record the qualification for elders and ministerial servants. Sixteen different requirements of elders are listed at 1 Timothy 3:1-7.  Further qualifications are found in such scriptures at 1 Titus 1:5-9 and James 3:17, 18.  Qualifications for ministerial servants are outlined at 1 Timothy 3:-10, 12, 13. Second, those recommending and making such appointments specifically pray for Jehovah's spirit to direct them as they review whether a brother meets Spiritual requirements to a reasonable degree.  Third, the individual being recommended needs to display the fruitage of God's holy spirit in his own life.  (Galatians 22, 23) So God's spirit is involved in all aspects of the appointment process.

But who actually appoints such brothers? In the past, all recommendations involving the appointment of elders are ministerial servants were sent to the local branch office.  There, brothers appointed by the Governing Body were assigned to review these recommendations and to make appropriate appointments.  Next, the branch office would notify the body of elders.  The elders, in turn, would inform the newly appointed men of their appointment, asking them if they were willing and actually qualified to accept the assignment. Finally, an announcement was made to the congregation.

But how were such appointments made in the first century? At times, the apostles made specific appointments, such as at the time they appointed seven men to care for the daily food distribution to widows.  (Acts 6:1-6) However, those menmay already have been serving as elders, that is, before being given this additional assignment.

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