Elders
There are two church offices described in the New Testament: Elders/Pastors and Deacons. Both roles are significant and necessary, yet distinct. Elders (servant leaders) guide and govern the church; Deacons (lead servants) assist the Elders and serve the body. The church needs godly, qualified men occupying both offices in order to be healthy.
Qualifications of Elders
The minimum qualifications for Elders shall not be less than those listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. In addition to the minimum qualifications given in Scripture, Elders must be male Covenant Partners, as described in Article 4, who fully subscribe to the Baptist Faith and Message and are actively involved in the ministry of the Church. A Lay Elder candidate will have been a Covenant Partner of Redemption for at least two years prior to nomination.
Call/Selection of Elders
The Elders will receive recommendations for Elder candidates from active Partners. Elder candidates will then be selected by unanimous approval of the Elders and recommended to the Church at least one month prior to any church meeting called by the Church. Any active Partner who believes a candidate is unqualified for the office of Elder should express such concerns to the Elders. Upon recommendation of the Elders, candidates shall be appointed by an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of active Partners present and voting.
Learn More
To learn more about the biblical role of Elders and Deacons, read the essay The Organization of the Church by Benjamin Merkle. To learn more about our church governance, read our Church Constitution.
Current Elders
Redemption is led by a plurality of elders with a Lead Pastor serving as “first among equals.”
