What are Elders and Deacons?

Shepherd the flock of God that is among you... as God would have you. - 1 Peter 5:2

The Bible teaches that there are two offices in the local church: elders and deacons. Together they
provide the leadership and care essential to the wellbeing of the local church. They are to be men
whose lives are above reproach and demonstrate the qualifications given in 1 Timothy 3.

Elders shepherd the flock, faithfully teaching the word of God and living as godly examples. They are to
protect the church from corrupt doctrine and from wrong morals. They exercise oversight and discipline
in the church. They visit the people in their homes, especially the sick, and pray with and for the people.
They seek the fruit of the preached Word among the flock. They bring the good news of the gospel to
the ignorant and perishing. They administer the sacraments. They instruct the ignorant, comfort the
mourner, and nourish and guard the children of the church. They set a worthy example to the flock
entrusted to their care by zeal in evangelizing the unconverted and in making disciples. They feed the
flock by reading, expounding and preaching the Word of God. They declare the will of God to sinners
and urge them to be reconciled to God through Christ.

Deacons carry out sympathy and service following the example of the Lord Jesus, especially in helping
others in time of need. They minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any
who may be in distress. They help develop the grace of liberality in the members of the church. They
devise effective methods of collecting the gifts of the people and distribute these gifts as needed and
planned. They care for the church property and help keep the church buildings in proper repair.