Our administration is as close to the Biblical pattern
as possible. We know of 2 offices. Elders 1Timothy
3:1 and Deacons. 1Timothy 3:10 We know
of different gifts given to the church.
1Corinthians 12:28
Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers. Ephesians 4:11-12
It's not good to confuse the two. An Elder may be gifted as a Pastor,
but not every Pastor is an Elder. Let's look at the offices for a
minute. In the New Testament each church had multiple elders.
The work was too great to be carried for very long by just one man.
The elders were to be supported by the church. 1Timothy 3:18
Not in the way of salaries, but by gifts. The people as they saw
fit were to give to the elders according to there ministry to the church.
1Timothy
3:17 This was a practical measure. The elders who laboured
the most for the church, compromised there vocational opportunities the
most, and were therefore in need of monetary gifts in order to live.
The role of an elder was laid out as one of spiritual leadership.
The pattern was given in Acts when the Apostles refused to give up ministering
the Word so that they could minister tables. Acts 6:1-7. Instead
they appointed Deacons. These Deacons were to be spiritually minded
men who loved the Lord enough to love others and take care of there needs.
1Timothy
3:8-9 The deacons were therefore responsible for more of the
practical needs of the saints within the church. These practical
needs were to be met in a spiritual manner, and lead to tremendous spiritual
growth. The Apostle Paul later said that those who "have used the
office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great
boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus." 1Timothy 3:13
