For every protestant congregation, it should be stated clearly that Christ Jesus is the head of the church (Col 1:17-18), the primary authority in the church (Matt. 28:18-20), and even beyond this - the King of all creation (Rev 1:5). And therefore, everyone in the church - at every recognized capacity is joyfuling submitting to the direction and instruction given to us by Christ in His word.

Further - we understand God's instruction in His word is such that every covenant church member is responsible to care for every other church member (Eph 4:1-6, Heb12:15). Through the sacrifice and righteousness of Jesus, we are all members of God’s family (Romans 8:15).

We also understand the Scriptures to teach that a healthy, local congregation is ordered and organized according to three covenant affirming groups - each with its own set of complementary responsibilities. These three groups include members, deacons, and pastors.

MEMBERS

All members are responsible for practicing the “one-another” commands of Scripture to all other members.

DEACONS

Deacons have not only the privilege and responsibility in their scriptural duties as members, but the additional responsibility according to its office (1 Tim 3:8-13) to serve in specific tasks that help to preserve the unity of the church amid its glorious diversity.

PASTORS

Pastors—also called elders (note - a plurality is ideal) —serve a local congregation as those who are primarily charged with leading and loving by preaching, praying (Acts 6:4) and equipping members to serve one another, so the whole church matures in proclaiming and obeying the truth in love (Ephesians 4).

Elder Development Plan