We believe in giving the ministry space and time to grow without imposing our will on it. To prevent negative impacts on growth, we use language that empowers and encourages others towards the same goals, without causing conflict or being inflexible. Church authority should be based on the principles of New Covenant freedom, and handle discipleship in a careful and thoughtful way. It is important to protect the growth of the ministry in its early stages, and to focus on essential topics rather than imposing many themes on an individual.
We have been entrusted with leadership roles that help churches grow at the individual level, while also ensuring that leadership does not become overbearing or cause division within the church. New Covenant truth should be upheld in all leadership positions and oversight.
It is important to protect the growth of the ministry in its early stages and focus on essential topics rather than imposing many themes on an individual. Just because something is in the
Bible does not mean that it is the right time to aggressively impose it on someone, as this could lead to misunderstandings and discomfort.
We have been given leadership roles that help churches grow at the individual level while also preventing leadership from becoming overbearing or causing
division within the church. It is important to focus on the essentials and avoid actions that may harm the flock, keep leadership overreach or breaking unity in check
when leadership goes off track and uses ministry for overreach, power, personal gain or immunity.
Our goal is to restore every wounded member of the body of Christ, whether they are struggling with isolation, depression, false identities, emotional
trauma, or just need discipleship training. We gently address errors and provide support and knowledge to redirect towards practical, Biblical solutions for healing and freedom. We respect
individuals' boundaries and unique purpose.
As a team of online staff, our goal is to be caring, non-judgmental, and respectful of others' growth. We will not argue or attack your opinion, and stand on the authority of the Bible. We do not promote teaching that goes against it and are sensitive to others' spiritual development and pray for the structure to support their growth.
We ask that you respect our position, training, pastoral experience, and doctrinal theology in the New Covenant as you contribute your views in a loving
manner. You are under no obligation to be part of our community, and we respect your church background and present spiritual home.
God desires for His people to be cared for and encouraged in their spiritual growth. It is important to recognize that just because
something is in the Bible does not necessarily mean it is applicable or appropriate in every situation. It is not helpful or loving to aggressively impose many themes on an individual, especially
if it could lead to misunderstandings or discomfort. This can be especially challenging for young Christians, who may not yet have a solid foundation in their faith. It is important to
handle the Word of God with care and discernment, and to be mindful of the impact it can have on others.
We use our platform to lift up prayers for physical needs, spiritual vision, and overall church development, especially in the early stages. Our team
has identified nine definitive instructions for church eldership and health, which include:
In summary, these nine instructions for church eldership and health emphasize the importance of anointed and consecrated leadership, a focus on the presence
of God and the Word of God, clear standards and direction, empowering and encouraging all members to use their gifts, protecting the unity and purity of the church, providing spiritual guidance
and discipline with love and grace, caring for the physical and emotional needs of the church, having a heart for evangelism and reaching the lost, and maintaining confidentiality, privacy, and
religious liberty in all interactions.
IN-DEPTH EXPLANATION: Our Glossary of our 9 definitions of developing care.
Expose errors: To expose errors means to bring to light or reveal mistakes or incorrect beliefs.
Accompanying leadership, doctrinal, personal choices, upbringing, and experiential life events: These factors can contribute to the errors or mistakes that have
been made, and may have played a role in the wounds or struggles that an individual is facing.
Introducing through course material and training in a spirit of meekness and love: By introducing course material and providing training in a spirit of meekness and love, it is possible to help individuals understand and address the errors or mistakes that have been made, and to heal from any wounds or struggles they may be facing.
Support structure, open ear, and skillful knowledge: These elements can provide individuals with the support and guidance they need to redirect
their thoughts and actions towards simple, practical solutions that are not strictly spiritual.
Gifting's to identify common problems: By using their unique gifts and abilities, it is possible for individuals to identify common problems and
challenges that they may be facing, and to seek guidance and support in addressing them.
Provisional goal of New Covenant identity: The provisional goal of New Covenant identity refers to the process of growing and maturing in one's
faith, and becoming more fully aligned with the principles and values of the New Covenant as described in the Bible. This may involve addressing errors or mistakes that have been made, and
seeking to understand and apply biblical principles in one's life.
Patience: To be patient means to be willing to wait or to be enduring, and can be an important virtue when it comes to addressing errors and helping individuals heal from wounds or struggles.
Spirit of meekness and love: Meekness refers to a quality of being gentle, humble, and submissive, while love refers to a strong affection or
attachment towards someone or something. By approaching these issues with a spirit of meekness and love, it is possible to create a supportive and understanding environment where individuals can
learn and grow.
Simple, practical solutions: Simple solutions refer to those that are straightforward and easy to understand and implement, while practical
solutions are those that are feasible and useful in addressing real-world problems. By seeking simple, practical solutions, it is possible to help individuals make progress in their journey
towards New Covenant identity.
Focus on essentials: It is important to prioritize and focus on the most important or fundamental aspects of one's work or responsibilities. This
can help to avoid distractions and ensure that time and resources are being used effectively.
Avoid actions that may harm the flock: The flock refers to the members of a church or other religious organization. It is important to avoid actions that may cause harm or damage to the flock, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
Keep leadership overreach in check: Overreach refers to the act of extending one's authority or influence beyond what is appropriate or justified.
In the context of church leadership, it is important to keep leadership overreach in check to ensure that the needs and well-being of the flock are being prioritized.
Avoid breaking unity: Unity refers to the state of being united or joined together. It is important to avoid actions that may disrupt or break
unity within the church or organization.
Keep leadership in check when using ministry for overreach, power, personal gain, or immunity: It is important to hold leadership accountable and
ensure that they are not using their position in ministry for overreach, power, personal gain, or immunity. This can help to protect the flock and maintain the integrity of the church or
organization.
Similar to our 9 leadership points, but specifically in eldership.
Elders' anointed direction and sanctified roles: Anointed direction refers to guidance or leadership that is ordained or appointed by God, while sanctified roles refer to positions or
responsibilities that are set apart or consecrated for a particular purpose. In the context of church eldership, this may refer to the authority and responsibility of leaders to guide and oversee
the spiritual direction of the church.
Establishing a solid church model: A solid church model refers to a clear and effective structure or system for the organization and operation of
the church. This may include elements such as reverence for the presence of God, consecrated prayer, and a love for the Word of God.
Bringing correct focuses and deep knowledge: It is important for church leaders to bring focus to the needs of the community and to have a deep
understanding of these needs in order to provide effective solutions.
Simple solutions and practical awareness: Simple solutions refer to those that are straightforward and easy to understand and implement, while
practical awareness refers to the ability to understand and apply knowledge in a way that is useful and relevant to real-world situations.
God-enabled wisdom: God-enabled wisdom refers to the ability to seek and receive guidance and understanding from God, and to apply this wisdom in
decision-making and problem-solving.
Rapid funding and strong, gifted oversight: Rapid funding refers to the availability of financial resources for the operation of the church, while
strong, gifted oversight refers to the ability of leaders to provide effective guidance and direction for the church.
Spiritual management: Spiritual management refers to the act of leading and overseeing the spiritual direction of the church. This may involve
elements such as anointed mandates, covenant shepherding, and the honoring of all members of the body of Christ. "This refers to the importance of providing adequate resources and support for
the ministry, as well as strong and gifted oversight and protection. Spiritual management should not be based on a CEO model that prioritizes only the strong, but rather should involve
God-fearing covenant shepherds who are anointed and equipped to lead all members of the body of Christ into His presence."
Avoiding early mistakes: It is important to avoid making mistakes or taking actions that may result in harm or unintended consequences. This may
involve making careful and deliberate decisions, rather than rushing things, and considering the long-term impact of these decisions. Steady progression, pragmatic choices, simplicity of
heart, one day at a time.
Confirmation of the Gospel truth: Confirmation of the Gospel truth refers to the process of verifying or affirming the accuracy and authenticity of the Gospel message. This may involve the study and application of the Word of God, as well as active involvement in the church.
God working miracles in unseen places: God is able to work miracles and bring about change in even the most difficult or unlikely circumstances.
This may involve setting one's heart towards the finish line and the desires of God's heart, and trusting that Christ will take possession of those under our care as He works in them.
Leadership trusting in Christ: As leaders, it is important to trust in Christ and rely on His power and guidance as we care for and support
those under our leadership. This involves preparing ourselves and being sensitive to the needs and struggles of others, recognizing that it is ultimately God who works in and through us to meet
the deepest corporate needs of the church. The power to do this flows from the covering of Christ and is able to overcome any weakness or limitations in our own flesh. God works where His
promises are believed and trusted in.
The Church as a designated assignment of God's Name: The Church is a designated assignment or purpose that has been set apart by God for His own purposes. This assignment is protected and empowered by the authority and presence of God, and cannot be destroyed or overcome by the gates of hell.
Doctrinal evidence supporting the correct roles and responsibilities of elders in the church includes:
IN-DEPTH EXPLANATION: Definitions of Eldership
Elders caring for and watching over the spiritual needs of the people:
This theme refers to the role of elders in the church as spiritual leaders who are responsible for caring for and overseeing the spiritual well-being of the members
of the church. This includes things like providing guidance and support, leading worship, and teaching the Word of God.
Example: An elder at a church might lead a small group Bible study, provide pastoral care to members who are struggling, or give a sermon on a Sunday morning.
Elders using their authority in a respectful and non-intrusive manner:
This theme emphasizes the importance of elders using their authority in a way that is respectful and not overly controlling. This means avoiding actions or
behaviors that might be perceived as intrusive or overly authoritarian.
Example: An elder might avoid making decisions for the members of the church without consulting them, or try to control their behavior in an overly
strict way.
Elders not seeking personal benefit or advantage:
This theme emphasizes the importance of elders avoiding actions or behaviors that might be motivated by self-interest or greed. This means that elders should not seek to gain personal benefit or advantage from their position or the members of the church.
Example: An elder might avoid using their position to get preferential treatment or to gain financial benefit from the church.
Elders promoting discernment and spiritual growth:
This theme refers to the role of elders in helping the members of the church grow spiritually and become more discerning. This might involve providing guidance, teaching, and support to help the members of the church grow in their faith.
Example: An elder might lead a study on a particular book of the Bible, or provide one-on-one mentorship to help a member of the church grow in
their faith.
Sources:
1 Timothy 3:1-7: "The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the
husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own
household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? He must not be a recent convert,
or he may become puffed up with conceit.
2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but [a]willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being
[b]lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;
1 Peter 5:2 KJV
6 not a [e]novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil, 1 Timothy 3:6
KJV
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: James 5:14 KJV
"As leaders in training, it is important to always make appeals, write letters, and act honorably when handling spiritual matters. Avoid being contentious or rude."
"Ministers of the New Covenant should have pure words and hearts, and their actions should reflect the anointing of God"
"lacking genuine authority or pure power."
Sources:
1 Timothy 3:2, 5:17
1 John 4:1
2 Timothy 2:15
Ephesians 4:15
Galatians 5:19-21
#ImpureWord #HardHeart #LackOfAnointing #BeDiscerning #DontBelieveEverySpirit #MinistersOfNewCovenant vs. Works
"We should not rely on numbers, statistics, or prideful boasting, but rather give thanks to God for all that he has done."
"The church should not be focused on business strategies or prioritizing certain members over others, but rather on spreading the love and message of God to all."
"True faith is manifested in the personal, simple, and practical ways in which we experience and fulfill the promises of the New Covenant with God."
"Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have bold access to God and are empowered to do ministry in accordance with the freedom and grace afforded to us through the New Covenant."