I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish biblically sound procedures, criteria, and responsibilities for appointing elders and deacons/deaconesses in alignment with the teachings of Scripture and the mission of the Evangelical Faith Church.

“So Christ Himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry…” — Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV)

II. THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS

This policy is rooted in the following biblical principles:

  • God calls qualified servants to lead and serve (Acts 6; 1 Tim 3; Titus 1)

  • Church leadership must reflect Christ’s character and mission (1 Pet 5:1-4)

  • Leaders are accountable to God and the church (Heb 13:17)

  • Spiritual maturity, integrity, and competence are essential (1 Tim 3:1-13)

III. DEFINITIONS

A. Elder

An elder (also called overseer or pastor) is appointed to shepherd, teach, lead, protect, and nurture the congregation.

Scripture:

  • 1 Timothy 3:1-7

  • Titus 1:5-9

  • 1 Peter 5:1-4

B. Deacon / Deaconess

A deacon (or deaconess) assists with the practical ministries of the church, especially caring for physical needs, service, and support functions.

Scripture:

  • 1 Timothy 3:8-13

  • Acts 6:1-7

IV. QUALIFICATIONS

A. Elder Qualifications (Based on 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9)

An elder must:

  1. Above Reproach — no scandal or public disgrace

  2. Husband of One Wife — faithful in marriage

  3. Self-Controlled, Sober-Minded — emotionally and spiritually stable

  4. Respectable — orderly and dignified

  5. Hospitable — welcoming and generous

  6. Able to Teach — sound doctrine and clear communicator

  7. Not Given to Drunkenness or Violence

  8. Not a Lover of Dishonest Gain

  9. Manages Family Well — children respectful and obedient

  10. Not a Recent Convert — spiritual maturity and depth

  11. Good Reputation Outside the Church — testimony in the community

“For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach… holding fast the faithful word…” — Titus 1:7; 1 Timothy 3:9 (ESV)

B. Deacon/Deaconess Qualifications (Based on 1 Timothy 3:8-13)

A deacon/deaconess must:

  1. Dignified — honorable conduct

  2. Not Double-Tongued — truthful and sincere

  3. Not Addicted to Much Wine — self-disciplined

  4. Not Greedy for Dishonest Gain

  5. Hold the Mystery of the Faith with a Clear Conscience

  6. Tested and Proven — demonstrated faithfulness

  7. Husband of One Wife (if male) and Manage Household Well

  8. Wives likewise dignified — for deaconesses, strong character and moral integrity

  9. Spiritual Maturity — worshipful life and faithful service

“Let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.” — 1 Timothy 3:10 (ESV)

V. SELECTION PROCESS

Step 1 — Prayerful Nomination

  • The congregation and leadership prayerfully nominate candidates

  • Nominations are submitted in writing to the Elders Council or Selection Committee

  • Scripture reference: Acts 6:4-6

Step 2 — Preliminary Screening

The Selection Committee evaluates:

  • Personal testimony and spiritual maturity

  • Biblical understanding

  • Lifestyle consistency with qualifications

  • Ministry involvement and service history

Step 3 — Congregational Input

  • Provide church members with opportunity to give input (privately, respectfully, and confidentially)

  • Input may include testimony of character, ministry fruit, and reputation

Step 4 — Formal Interview

The committee conducts interviews to assess:

  • Understanding of roles and responsibilities

  • Commitment to prayer and Scripture

  • Ability to teach or serve effectively

Step 5 — Training and Assessment

Candidates undergo:

  • Discipleship training

  • Biblical leadership instruction

  • Evaluation period (e.g., 3–6 months)

Step 6 — Affirmation

After training and evaluation:

  • The Elders Council presents candidates to the congregation

  • Congregational affirmation by vote or consensus

“When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.” — Acts 6:6

VI. INSTALLATION AND ORDINATION

  • Following affirmation, a commissioning service is held

  • Elders and deacons are prayed for and publicly recognized

  • Laying on of hands to acknowledge God’s calling (1 Tim 4:14; Acts 13:3)

VII. ACCOUNTABILITY AND CONTINUING DEVELOPMENT

A. Regular Evaluation

  • Elders and deacons meet regularly for mutual accountability

  • Annual performance review with documented ministry goals

B. Continuing Education

  • Encouraged to engage in spiritual growth and theological learning

C. Accountability Structures

  • Elders accountable to one another and to the church

  • Deacons accountable to elders

VIII. REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION

A. Grounds for Removal

Grounds include:

  • Persistent sin without repentance

  • Teaching contrary to Scripture

  • Moral failure

  • Inability to fulfill role

Steps:

  1. Private correction (Matt 18:15)

  2. Restorative intervention

  3. If unrepentant, removal by church leadership with love and biblical process

B. Resignation

  • Voluntary resignation should be submitted in writing

  • Leadership conducts exit meeting

IX. ROLE DESCRIPTIONS

A. Elder

  • Shepherd the flock (1 Pet 5:2)

  • Teach and defend sound doctrine (Titus 1:9)

  • Provide pastoral care and oversight

  • Pray for and with the congregation

B. Deacon / Deaconess

  • Serve the physical and practical needs of the church (Acts 6:1-3)

  • Assist ministries of mercy, hospitality, stewardship

  • Support the elders in church life