The Bible does not require an elder to be a paid staff member, nor does it prohibit financial support for those serving in eldership when necessary (1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Corinthians 9:11). At Landmark, both staff and non-staff men may serve as elders provided they meet the biblical qualifications and can fulfill the responsibilities of the office.
Landmark also recognizes pastors who may have been ordained by other ministries and serve in various pastoral capacities. However, pastoral ordination received elsewhere does not automatically confer governing authority within Landmark Church. Governing eldership at Landmark is determined by the existing elder board through the church's elder evaluation and appointment process.
Men ordained as pastors by Landmark are recognized as elders according to the qualifications and functions described in Scripture. As a general practice, ordination by Landmark includes installation into the office of elder, having already completed the church's elder evaluation, vetting, and approval process.
Service on the governing elder board, including voting authority and legal responsibilities, ordinarily accompanies eldership. However, in certain circumstances, the elder board may determine that a different arrangement is appropriate due to unique ministry, legal, or practical considerations.
Because eldership carries responsibility for the doctrine, direction, and discipline of the church, the final determination of governing eldership rests with the existing plurality of elders. In the case of non-staff elders, they must also have the time and availability necessary to fulfill the oversight responsibilities and meeting requirements established by the elder board.
