Question: Where does church get authority for voting on its elders, pastors, deacons, etc.? There is no authority for voting. Qualifications are given for elders and deacons in Titus 1 and 1 Tim. 3. The congregation is involved in the selection process (Acts 6:3-7). The evangelist also is charged with the work of appointing elders (Titus 1:5).