It is our conviction that the scriptures reveal a local community of believers is overseen by a plurality of leadership consisting of Elders & Deacons. We also believe local communities should be relationally connected to an Eph. 4 core (which we identify as “equippers”) which provides leadership and accountability within a context of mutual submission.
We profoundly reject the distinction between clergy and laity, for we are all brothers & sisters with One as our Head – the Lord Jesus Christ. Nor do we engage in the use of titles, hierarchical structures or positional preeminence. However, within the eldership, responsibilities are delineated according to the type and measue of grace upon each individual with some having a greater sphere of leadership than others.
According to the scriptural pattern, elders are appointed by the equipping team and deacons are appointed by the elders, having first been approved by the saints. The identification of elders & deacons is merely to recognize those within the community who are responsible to maintain order and sound doctrine, serve the needs of the community and set the example of maturity in Christ.
Concerning Elders, it is our position that…
- Elders are mature believers who chose to bear the responsibility of nurturing, protecting and instructing the community. They are appointed by the apostolic team to serve the community.
- The qualifications for eldership are clearly defined in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-10.
- The elders function in plurality with Christ as the head and diligently pursue the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Each one defers to the other according to their respective grace and labor to have one heart, one mind, and speak with one voice.
- Elders do not exercise power over the community but express the collective authority of the community to reprove, exhort, encourage and protect the community in accordance with apostolic directive.
- The eldership should relate to an apostolically-oriented equipping team for accountability, leadership and present-truth alignment.
Concerning Deacons, it is our position that…
- Deacons are mature believers chosen by the body to serve in various capacities that contribute to the practical functions of the community.
- The qualifications and standard for deacons are clearly defined in 1 Tim. 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3.
- Deacons are commissioned by the eldership with the authority and responsibility to lead in their respective roles.