Elders

We believe the New Testament teaches a plurality of elders as the model of church leadership (1 Peter 5:1-2; Acts 20:28; 1 Tim 5:17-18).

Along with our commitment to the priesthood of all believers we also recognize the need for strong, Spirit-led, biblically instructed elder leadership under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

However, the elders are not the only shepherds at Grace. We want to see all those with pastoral and teaching gifts using them regularly. The leaders of our small groups function as pastors of their small flocks within our church.

We believe pastors/elders should function primarily as shepherds who emphasize the ministry of the word, prayer, discipleship and the spiritual health of God's people. They are not primarily administrators, managers, etc.