From Acts 20:17–38, we see that the terms "elders" (v. 17) and "overseers" (v. 28) are used of the same individuals and are applied to those who "take heed to the flock" (v. 28). In other words, elders, overseers (or bishops), and pastors (or shepherds) are all describing the same workers in the church. Elder emphasizes their maturity; overseer emphasizes their responsibility; shepherd emphasizes their ministry to heed, lead, and feed the local flock. These men (the words are always plural) are to fulfill the qualifications given in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Our elders are to be respected, prayed for, and obeyed (Heb. 13:7,17).