Elders as a team

This part of the course explores the importance of Elders working as a team - amongst themselves and with the wider church community.

7. The dissenting voice

Not all teamwork is harmonious all the time. There are difficult decisions to be taken, and different voices and opinions to be heard in order to discern God’s will. There are examples on the next page, in the case studies section, of when the small, dissenting voice, has caused the church to ‘change direction’. 

Sometimes the doubts you feel may be God challenging the direction being considered. In these circumstances, it would be wrong not to voice your opinion! God may speak through you no matter how new an Elder you may be. Do not hold back your thoughts because you feel others may be more experienced but, having said that, do not approach dissent in a combative manner. Speak constructively and pray for God’s guidance. But be assured - your opinion matters! And, working together, we are more likely to discern God’s will.