The Crucial Offices Of God’s Church

1. There are 3 Key Greek Terms for Elders in the N.T. used interchangeably to describe their roles. (1 Peter 5:1-3) 

Presbuteros (πρεσβύτερος): Translated as "elder" or "presbyter," meaning an older person or a leader with spiritual authority and rank.

Episkopos (ἐπίσκοπος): Translated as "overseer" or "bishop," focusing on the duty of watching over and protecting the congregation.

Poimēn (ποιμήν): Translated as "shepherd" or "pastor," emphasizing the nurturing, guiding, and feeding aspects of leadership.

2. The Deacon office was appointed to keep the unity of the church by meeting the ministerial needs of the people. (Acts 6:1-7)

-Serving practical needs (Serving tables)

-Freeing up Spiritual Leaders (Elders)

-Protecting Church Unity

3. The scriptures give clear instructions on who is qualified to fill these crucial offices of the church (1 Tim 3:1-13)

Application:

1. Highland Park needs to institute a plurality of elders, rather than a singular Pastor to fill this office.

2. Highland Park needs to stop asking unqualified members to do what qualified Elders should be tasked with, for the health of the church.

3. Highland Park needs to trust God’s leadership plan for His church, and update the by-laws to reflect a church that trusts His way, over our tradition.