The scriptures clearly teach the principle of servant leadership within the body. Christ washed the feet of the disciples on the night before He went to the cross (John 13:12). He also taught specifically on another occasion:

"But Jesus called them to Himself and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It is not so among you, but whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many" (Matt. 20:25-28).

We also acknowledge God-given leadership within the body. The scriptures declare, “Obey yourleaders, and submit to them; for they keep watch over your souls, as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you”(Hebrews 13:17). “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of a double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching” (I Timothy 5:17). “Deacons likewisemust be men of dignity” (I Timothy 3:8) and so their ministry to the body is vital. We acknowledge the gifts and calling of all men and women who do not serve in a church office, but whose serviceis essential to the proper functioning of the body. We note the following spiritual, administrative, and practical ministries within the church:

• Spiritual equipping, teaching, service, accountability, and ministry oversight by pastors and elders.
• Practical and spiritual ministries by deacons and deaconesses.
• Administrative oversight by the Leadership Council where elders, deacons, staff, and other men and women who lead various ministries in the body receive counsel, encouragement,and give an account of their ministry stewardship.