“And He gave some to be shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:11–12
Leadership exist to:
- Teach the gospel clearly
“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” — 2 Timothy 4:2 - Worship according to the New Testament pattern
“God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” — John 4:24 - Strengthen families and encourage spiritual growth
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… teaching and admonishing one another.” — Colossians 3:16 - Serve our community with compassion
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” — Galatians 6:10 - Maintain unity in Christ
“Be eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” — Ephesians 4:3
Leadership Roles (Focused on Service, Not Titles)
In the Lord’s church, leadership is not about titles, personalities, or positions. It is about serving the body of Christ with humility, love, and faithfulness. Scripture consistently teaches that leadership is a work — not a status.
Elders / Shepherds
Those who serve as elders do so as shepherds, not executives. Their calling is to care for souls and guide the congregation spiritually.
They serve by:
- Providing spiritual oversight
“Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock… to shepherd the church of God.” — Acts 20:28 - Guarding doctrine
“Hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught.” — Titus 1:9 - Shepherding the flock with compassion
“Shepherd the flock of God… not domineering, but being examples.” — 1 Peter 5:2–3 - Leading by example
“Remember your leaders… consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” — Hebrews 13:7
Deacons
Deacons are servants entrusted with specific works that support the church’s needs. Their role is not about authority, but about hands‑on service that strengthens the congregation.
They serve by:
- Supporting the work of the church through service
“Let them first be tested; then let them serve as deacons.” — 1 Timothy 3:10 - Managing specific ministries and tasks
(Modeled after the servants in Acts 6 who handled practical needs so the Word could flourish) - Freeing the elders to focus on spiritual matters
“We will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” — Acts 6:4
Ministers / Teachers
Ministers and teachers serve the church by proclaiming the Word and equipping others to grow and participate in the work of the kingdom.
They serve by:
- Preaching and teaching the Word
“How shall they hear without a preacher?” — Romans 10:14 - Equipping members for ministry
“Equip the saints for the work of ministry.” — Ephesians 4:12 - Supporting evangelism and outreach
“Do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” — 2 Timothy 4:5
