The Scriptures teach that a plurality of elders governed individual New Testament churches. (Acts 14:23; Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5; Philippians 1:1) The Scripture does not mention any congregations featuring a stand-alone elder and leader.

A plurality of godly elders, exercising their individual gifts, aligns with the Scripture's teaching that wisdom is found in a multitude of godly counselors (Proverbs 11:4; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 19:20; Proverbs 24:6).

This truth does not eliminate the possibility and likelihood that one or more elders will stand out from the others as more public in their ministries or more influential in their workings on the Elder Board.

According to Titus 1:6-9 and 1 Timothy 3:2-7, an elder must be:

Above reproach
Able to teach
Husband to one wife
Not addicted to wine
Temperate
Not antagonistic
Prudent
Uncontentious
Respectable
Free from the love of money
Hospitable
Manage own household
Not a new convert

The Scriptures show that the Pastors "serve by leading," and that their responsibility involves the spiritual oversight of the congregation. All Pastors are equal in authority but not necessarily equal in influence. The Pastor's Primary Responsibilities:

• Doctrine: Ensuring that the doctrine of the church is biblical; all doctrinal issues in the church will be settled by the Board of Pastors.

• Direction: Ensuring that the direction of the church is consistent with the Vertical Church statement of purpose and the four pillars.

• Discipline: Administering in love and humility the process of church discipline (Matthew 18:15-20; Galatians 6:1-4; Titus 3:10; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; 1 Timothy 5:17-25; 1 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11; Romans 16:17).

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