It is obvious that in order “to give instruction in sound doctrine” (Titus 1:9), an elder must have a high and reverent view of Holy Scripture. He must hold it to be God’s authoritative Word, free from error and sufficient for building up the faith of believers. This is not to say that a ruling elder must have the teaching gifts needed to preach a sermon or even to lead a stirring Bible class. Some ruling elders will possess significant gifts of teaching, but Paul’s emphasis is that the elder must be able to answer questions and give helpful doctrinal instruction to Christ’s sheep. Tim Chester asserts that “the emphasis falls not so much on skills, as on holding fast to the truth. It is not so much about an ability to teach, as a passion for the truth.”

显然，为了“教导纯正的教义”（多 1：9），长老必须对圣经有崇高而虔敬的看法。他必须认为它是神的权威话语，没有错误，足以建立信徒的信心。这并不是说治理长老必须具备讲道甚至带领激动人心的圣经课程所需的教导恩赐。一些治理的长老会拥有重要的教导恩赐，但保罗强调长老必须能够回答问题，并向基督的羊提供有用的教义上指导。蒂姆·切斯特断言，“重点不在于技能，而在于坚持真理。与其说是教导能力，不如说是对真理的热情。”