Church Leadership
Elders, Deacons, and Evangelists in the Church of Christ
The New Testament gives us a clear picture of how the Lord intended His ekklesia (assembly) to be organized. Unlike the denominational systems of men, the structure revealed in Scripture is simple, Christ-centered, and designed for the growth and edification of the body. Three roles stand out in particular—elders, deacons, and evangelists. Each has distinct responsibilities, yet all work together for the same purpose: to glorify God and build up the saints.
Elders: Shepherds of the Flock
In the New Testament, elders are also called shepherds, overseers, or bishops (Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:1–3). Their role is not to rule as lords but to guide, protect, and feed the flock of God.
Qualifications
Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus lay out specific qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9). Elders must be men of maturity, proven character, and sound faith. They are to be husbands of one wife, able to teach, hospitable, and above reproach.
Work of Elders
Shepherding the flock – guiding the saints in truth and guarding against false doctrine (Acts 20:28–30).
Leading by example – not by force but by serving willingly (1 Peter 5:3).
Watching over souls – they will give an account to God for their oversight (Hebrews 13:17).
Each congregation is to have a plurality of elders (Philippians 1:1), never a single man ruling over the assembly. This prevents one person from holding undue power and ensures decisions are made collectively under Christ’s authority.
Deacons: Servants of the Church
The word deacon simply means “servant.” In Acts 6, we see men appointed to handle the daily distribution to widows so that the apostles could focus on prayer and teaching. This principle of service carried into the local assembly.
Qualifications
Like elders, deacons have qualifications (1 Timothy 3:8–13). They must be men of dignity, sincere faith, and proven integrity. Their families also play an important role in their example.
Work of Deacons
Handling physical needs – managing the practical affairs of the assembly.
Supporting the work of elders – freeing them to focus on spiritual oversight.
Promoting unity – by serving faithfully, deacons help prevent neglect or division (Acts 6:1–7).
Deacons are not rulers but servants. Their role shows that every part of the body has value and that even practical service is spiritual in nature when done for the Lord.
Evangelists: Preachers of the Word
The evangelist is one who proclaims the good news. Paul told Timothy to “do the work of an evangelist” (2 Timothy 4:5), which included preaching the Word, reproving, rebuking, and exhorting with patience and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2).
Role of the Evangelist
Preaching the gospel – both to the lost and to the saved.
Strengthening congregations – teaching sound doctrine and encouraging faithfulness.
Training others – Paul told Timothy to entrust the truth to faithful men who could teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).
Evangelists work alongside elders and deacons, respecting the order God has given. Their authority is mutually amenable with the Eldership.
Working Together in God’s Design
Elders, deacons, and evangelists each have different roles, but none are higher or lower in value. Elders shepherd the flock, deacons serve its needs, and evangelists spread the Word. Together, they reflect God’s wisdom in organizing His people.
When these roles are filled according to God’s pattern, the ekklesia grows in unity, stability, and maturity (Ephesians 4:11–16). Every member benefits, and the gospel shines brightly in the world.
Let us always strive to follow the simple New Testament pattern—rejecting the traditions of men and holding fast to the Lord’s design for His people.