colleges of elders which represent the tribe, city, locality, or people.”14 Throughout the Old Testament they functioned as judges in civil as well as religious matters. They advised kings, counseled people in their towns, and at times were associated with the high priest. In the New Testament they were found (primarily in opposition to Christ) identified along with the priests, scribes, and the high priest (e.g., Matt. 16:21; 26:3). Therefore to Paul or any other Jew, an official elder was not just