Leadership

In the New Testament, the terms for pastors, elders or overseers are used interchangeably. ​These men are qualified by scripture and are tasked with the leadership, organization, ​teaching, pastoral care, and discipleship of the church (Eph 4:11, 1 Pet 5:2). "Deacons" on ​the other hand are appointed for service and administration, attending to practical needs ​as they arise in the church (1 Tim 3:8-13, Acts 6:1-4).

Pastors/Elders focus on leadership, doctrine, and direction while deacons serve to support ​the church's practical needs under the leadership of the elders. Both are specific biblical ​offices that work together for the church's well-being.

We are an autonomous, congregational church with local, plural elder leadership. While ​large financial decisions, and the adoption or change of doctrinal and organizational ​documents, and membership issues are affirmed by our congregation, we empower our ​leaders to lead with zeal.

Our plan of choosing and installing Officers

Nomination

Elders recommend candidates to the congregation for affirmation. The qualifications are ​outlined in 1 Tim 3:1-7 and Tit 1:6-9. The process for choosing and installing deacons is ​identical to that of elders with the exception of qualification as given in 1 Tim 3, and while ​the process is overseen by the elders, the nominations for deacons come from the ​congregation Acts 6:1-6

Evaluation

Candidates undergo a thorough vetting process, including interviews, background checks, ​and discussions to assess their doctrinal beliefs and personal character, ensuring they meet ​the call to be above reproach concerning the qualifications of the office.

Preparation

Nominees may exhibit a verifiable sense of personal calling yet may not be competent in a ​range of areas. This may require training which often includes theological education, biblical ​leadership development, pastoral skills, and mentorship by existing elders to prepare them ​for the role.

Direction

When candidates are identified by the existing elders, the church will then set aside a period ​of prayer and fasting as they seek to discern the will of God concerning a candidate's calling, ​qualifications, and competency for this role, as seen in Acts 14:23 where elders were ​appointed with prayer and fasting.

Affirmation

After a candidate is adequately prepared, the congregation is given an opportunity to affirm ​the candidates, which may involve a period of public review where members can raise ​concerns or support for the nominees. After the review period, the congregation may vote to ​affirm the candidates, often during a church service or special meeting.

Installation

Affirmed candidates are formally installed as elders in a special service that includes prayer, ​laying on of hands, and a charge to serve faithfully, as per the example of ordination in 1 Tim ​4:14 and 2 Tim 1:6. The installation service is a time of celebration and commitment, with ​the congregation pledging to support and pray for the new elders, which is an expression of ​the unity and mutual support instructed in Heb 13:17.

Mailing: P.O.Box 574

Bartlesville, OK 74005