****Building a Biblically Governed Church: Christ’sDesign for Leadership and Service

by Bernard Mukwavi

Philippians 1:1-2

1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,

To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:

2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Introduction

Today, we’ll explore the structure of a local church and the ways in which it can be governed in alignment with biblical principles. We’ll discuss the key components within the church’s structure, including the roles of Christ, the members, the elders, and the deacons, examining how each contributes to the church's health and effectiveness.

Why Church Governance Matters

Good governance enhances efficiency and helps us remain faithful to biblical standards. A well-structured church that is submitted to the Holy Spirit, being Christ Centered  will thrive and fulfill its mission effectively.

Paul and Timothy’s greetings in Philippians 1:1-2 give a glimpse in the New Testament Church order. Paul praised this church for their partnership in spreading the Gospel of Christ.

Components of a Local Church Structure

  1. Jesus as the Head
    1. Paul and Timothy Servants of Christ Jesus**. Paul did not use the usual salutation as an apostle but instead referred to himself and Timothy as servants of Christ Jesus.** This shows ****submission and dependence on Christ Jesus as the head of the church. Colossians 1:18: “And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.”
    2. Jesus holds the position of supremacy, having died and risen for the church. He is also the builder of the church, as seen in Matthew 16:17-18: “Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.’”
    3. Jesus Purchased the Church by His own blood.
    4. The Church must be Christ Centred and submitted to Him. He must be the focal point of every Christian or church gathering.
  2. To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi
    1. The Church Body comprises God’s holy people, united in Christ. This includes both universal and local churches.
    2. Qualifications to be a member of the Universal Church. Being born again
    3. Qualifications to be a member of the local Church. Being born again and connected to a geographical gathering of believers. The local church though autonomous, remains interconnected with other churches.
    4. Every member is gifted to be in the body, and they have value and worth.
  3. Together with the Overseers****
    1. Elders are spiritually mature leaders who are called by God and appointed to oversee the church. Acts 20:28 instructs these elders: “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”
    2. The elders govern the church and give spiritual leadership to it.
    3. They equip members for the work of the ministry.
    4. They work in plurality and must meet spiritual qualifications to serve as elders.
  4. And Deacons
    1. Deacons are a secondary body of church officers concerned with the temporal matters of the church. The term deacon, is derived from the Greek word διάκονος (diakonos), which means "servant," "minister," or "one who serves." It encompasses a support function, including assisting in preaching the Gospel. Examples include the seven who were chosen in Acts 6:1-7. They included Philip and Stephen, who served and preached effectively.
    2. 1 Timothy 3:8-13 8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. 11 In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. 12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
  5. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
    1. Grace for the Church. It speaks to the undeserved favor that we have received from God through Christ. We are saved by grace.
    2. Peace speaks of the inner peace within the Christian believer amid many challenges in life.

Conclusion

A church that is properly organized with competent leaders submitted to the Lordship of Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit will respond to Church Vision, and Mission while upholding Christian Values of loving God and loving people. The Great Commandment calls us to love God and love people. The Great Commission instructs us to preach the Gospel and disciple new believers. The Gospel proclaims Christ as saviour of the world.