DMS_GL_my_tw/bible/other/elder.md

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elder, older, old

Definition:

The term “elder” or “older” refers to people (in the Bible, usually men) who have grown old enough to become mature adults and leaders within a community. For example, elders might have gray hair, have adult children, or perhaps even have grandchildren or great-grandchildren.

  • The term “elder” came from the fact that elders were originally older men who, because of their age and experience, had greater wisdom.
  • In the Old Testament, the elders helped lead the Israelites in matters of justice and the Law of Moses.
  • In the New Testament, Jewish “elders” continued to be leaders in their communities and also were judges for the people.
  • In the early Christian churches, Christian “elders” gave spiritual leadership to the local assemblies of believers. Elders in these churches sometimes included young men who were spiritually mature.
  • This term could be translated as “older men” or “spiritually mature men leading the church.”

Bible References:

Word Data:

  • Strongs: H1419, H2205, H7868, G1087, G3187, G4244, G4245, G4850