It’s just common sense.
Those that are paying for it, get a bigger say in it.
As for the bread(or crackers, whatever) and wine, and the collection plates...that’s the church equivalent of the “color guard”, or the “honor guard”.
Anyone could do that so long as they are excellent examples of what a church goer should be. Elders should have first crack at it since they are the most respectable(or should be) members.
Obviously, there will be exceptions. You can’t have some rich scumbag off the street walk in and write a million dollar check then demand to be an elder. No matter how rich you are, less than exemplary life should exclude you. also, years of attendance and number of absences should figure into it, imo.
I don’t see why people would get bent out of shape if there are no female elders. It’s just tradition. Besides, women have too much power as it is.
See post 45 or you are just pulling my leg. If that’s the case you got me.
All right, you may be describing how things work in practice, especially in little country churches, but that’s not the same thing as how it ought to be; Paul warns against treating people in church differently just because one is rich and another poor. That’s the way of the world, what you call “common sense.” Christians are supposed to love one another equally, as God does. That’s where equality under the law here in America comes from!
Not all churches have the elders serve as ushers, either, but you’re right about people treating it like a color guard. Finally, “women have too much power as it is”? What would get done without a LOL (Little Old Lady) Brigade doing it? Read the end of the Epistles; Paul almost always thanks the ladies of the church. Just because tradition keeps gals from the “elder” title doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have a say.