In the New Testament, the role of an elder is a significant position within the early Christian church, tasked with leadership, teaching, and pastoral care. The qualifications for elders are primarily outlined in the pastoral epistles, specifically in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. These passages provide a framework for the character and abilities required for those who aspire to this office.

1 Timothy 3:1-7 :
The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, providing a detailed list of qualifications for anyone desiring the position of an overseer, which is synonymous with elder. Paul states, "This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and keep his children under control, with complete dignity. For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for the church of God? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same condemnation as the devil. Furthermore, he must have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the snare of the devil."

Titus 1:5-9 :
Paul also instructs Titus on the qualifications for elders, emphasizing similar attributes. "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, having children who are believers and are not open to the charge of being wild or disobedient. As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-absorbed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it."

Character and Conduct:
The qualifications emphasize the moral and ethical character of the elder. He must be "above reproach," indicating a life that is free from scandal or legitimate accusation. The elder is to be "the husband of but one wife," which has been interpreted as a call to marital faithfulness and moral integrity. The elder must be "temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable," and "able to teach," highlighting the importance of personal discipline, relational skills, and doctrinal soundness.

Family Management:
An elder's ability to manage his own household is seen as a microcosm of his ability to lead the church. He must have children who are believers and well-behaved, demonstrating his capability to lead and nurture in a family setting.

Spiritual Maturity:
The requirement that an elder must not be a recent convert underscores the need for spiritual maturity and experience. This maturity helps prevent pride and ensures that the elder is grounded in the faith.

Reputation:
An elder must have a good reputation with outsiders, reflecting the importance of a credible witness to the broader community. This reputation protects the church from scandal and enhances its mission.

Doctrinal Soundness:
The ability to teach and hold firmly to sound doctrine is crucial. Elders are responsible for encouraging the church with sound teaching and refuting false teachings, safeguarding the integrity of the faith.

These qualifications underscore the gravity and responsibility of the role of an elder, ensuring that those who lead the church are equipped both in character and in doctrine to shepherd the flock effectively.