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 God's plan for church leadership is revealed in Scripture. He launched the church by giving certain individuals specific gifts "...apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers" (Ephesians 4:11). These believers, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, initiated the Christian movement and brought local churches into existence through their teaching and preaching.
As churches were established in the faith, and when more than one person became qualified, elders were appointed to continue the pastor/teaching ministry in each local church. To the elders was given the ultimate responsibility for the oversight of that particular church body, and the shepherding of its members. In addition, our Lord called every believer to servanthood, but specifically called out some from among the congregations to become leaders.
About our Leaders
Elders
Our elders have overall responsibility for oversight and direction of the church. They are to seek, in all matters, the mind of Christ (who is the Head of the Church) through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. They must be able to teach and exhort the church in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict the truth. Elders are to lead by example and will provide instruction for the maintenance of healthy relationships within the church. They will appoint deacons or ministers as is necessary to accomplish the mission of the church. When new elders are needed from time to time, men are nominated by the congregation and are then approved by the Elders and the membership. To see a list of our current elders, click here. To see our elders' philosophy of leadership, click here.
Deacons
Wherever special ministry tasks were needed, since the beginning of the church, servant leaders (deacons) were appointed to carry out those tasks. As in Acts 6, where people of "good reputation, full of wisdom and the Holy Spirit" were appointed to the task of caring for neglected Grecian widows, our servant leaders assume responsibility for numerous ministry tasks throughout the life of the church. These Godly leaders increase the quantity and quality of the church's mission and ministry. As with the elders, when new deacons are needed from time to time, men are nominated by the congregation and are then approved by the Elders and the membership. To see a list of our current deacons, click here. Note that some of our ministers also serve as deacons.
Ministers
Understanding that all believers are equal before God, our ministers do not have special titles, or wear special clothing. Our ministers are primarily engaged in preparing, equipping, and modeling ministries. Specifically, our senior minister is focused on preaching and leadership, while our other ministers provide vision and direction for our ministries. Since we believe that the ministry at Fairfax belongs primarily to the members of the church, our entire staff team of ministers, secretaries, and volunteer support are here to help the church accomplish what God has called all of us to do. To see a list of our current ministers, click here.
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