Leadership

Jesus defined leadership as serving, and the New Testament describes elders and deacons as two types of servant leaders that are to be ordained or appointed to serve the local church.

Elders
Elders are leaders appointed by the Lord to direct the affairs of the church. These men, who serve as overseers and are entrusted with God’s work, must be men of character and integrity and examples to other believers. In fact the bible prescribes a list of qualities that must be evident in their lives. These men are to teach the word of God, pray for the sick, serve as shepherds of God’s flock (the church) and be able to teach God’s word and encourage others with sound doctrine as well as to refute those who oppose the scripture. (1 Tim 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; James 5:14; 1 Peter 5:1-3)

Deacons
Deacons often excel in gifts of serving, administration and helps. They work with others to manage the upkeep and maintenance of church facilities, and are responsible to follow up and serve individuals who have expressed some need or require immediate assistance. The office of deacon was actually instituted in Jerusalem when the early church was experiencing rapid growth, and as a result some widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.  The apostles wisely proposed that the congregation choose seven men to whom they could turn over this responsibility, so they could continue to give attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. As a result, the word of God continued to spread, and the number of disciples increased rapidly. (Acts 6:1-7)

5-Fold Ministry
Some elders are also gifted to serve in the church as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers with added responsibility to equip God’s people for works of service. (Eph 4:11-13)