Jamie Davidson – Elder

Hi Jamie, what does the role of an Elder entail?

The role of Elders is set out in the New Testament and entails providing spiritual leadership and oversight for the church (Hebrews 13 v17); caring for the church as shepherds (Acts 20 v28-31); and ensuring that there is sound teaching that is faithful to the Bible (1 Tim 3 v12; Titus 1 v9). We meet as a group of Elders once a month to pray, review current activity and plan ahead.

How long have you been an Elder at BSBC?

I’m the newest member of the team and have been an Elder for around 18 months.

What are the Biblical qualifications of being an Elder?

The qualifications for eldership are set out in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. The attributes listed are primarily to do with character rather than specific skills, but the ability to teach features, as well as an eagerness to serve in leadership.

What is your vision for our Church?

At the risk of sounding like a politician, I feel I should start with the Church’s vision, which is: “To be a community of disciples of Jesus Christ that live out what the Bible teaches us, so that God’s plan to save the world may be accomplished.” To flesh this out a bit in my own words, I’m passionate that we get to know God better; that we take the Bible seriously and understand what God is saying to us through it; that we serve Him as whole life disciples; and that we share the good news of the Gospel with our community in ways that are helpful and relevant.

When and how did you become a Christian?

I became a Christian as a teenager. Whilst I couldn’t point to a specific date, an important time for me was undoubtedly when I attended my first Scripture Union camp on the Isle of Arran. I understood, perhaps for the first time, the importance and urgency of repenting of my sin, asking God to forgive me and save me, and committing to follow Him with all I have.

How long have you been at BSBC and what was your church background before coming to BSBC?

Corrie and I have been members at BSBC for around ten years now. I grew up attending a presbyterian church (Church of Scotland) and have previously been a member of independent evangelical churches with Baptist and Brethren backgrounds in the different places I’ve lived.

What other roles have you occupied since joining BSBC?

I’ve tried my hand in a few areas. Before becoming an Elder I was the Deacon for Reaching Out, so I was responsible for leading our work in evangelism and mission. This is an area I continue to be passionate about and see great need for. My other leadership roles include Youth@TheBridge, which is our Friday evening youth group for 10-14 year olds; and leading Alpha and Christianity Explored courses for those wishing to find out more about the Christian faith and consider following Jesus for themselves. I’m also a member of the stewarding team and on the rota to lead intercessions during the Sunday morning services.

Tell us a few interesting things about you…hobbies? Other volunteer roles outside the Church?

I’ve been married to Corrie for sixteen years and we have three children – Zara (13), Hannah (10) and Isaac (7). I work in Human Resources (specifically Compensation and Benefits) for an engineering company and enjoy the blend of analytical problem solving and working with people. I’m told that I’m not very good at having hobbies, which probably doesn’t make me sound very interesting. I keep fit by going to the gym, play a little bit of golf (not a gifting), always try to have a Christian book on the go and listen to various Christianity, current affairs and sport themed podcasts. Liz Lake has also reminded me that I am participating rather well this season in the BSBC League of Champions Fantasy Football.

Is there anything we can pray about for you and/or your role?

Yes please! Elders are supposed to set a Godly example and that’s not something I ever feel I excel in. I also need wisdom to appropriately balance the demands of family, work and church. I’d really appreciate prayers for me and my family.