It is clear from Bible scripture that a congregation of the Lord’s people is complete in its organization when it has elders and deacons.  The congregation of Philippi serves as one of many biblical examples (Philippians 1:1).  Clear qualifications are given for those men who would serve in these special servant and leadership positions (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1; Acts 6).

            The scriptures also allow for a congregation to be acceptably “unorganized” until the positions of elders and deacons can be filled with qualified men.  Preachers are charged with the responsibility of “setting in order the things that are wanting (lacking) and to ordain elders in every city as I had appointed you” (Titus 1:5).

            To avoid dictatorship, the body of elders is always composed of more than one man.  In the absence of elders and to avoid a dictatorship (in appearance or reality), several men share in the planning and decision-making process of the Harrison & Willow congregation.  The preacher is only one of them.

            Meanwhile, a study of the character, work, and qualifications of those who would serve in leadership is presently being conducted and opportunities for practical applications are being used.  Through this process, we look to God for provision of a servant leadership in His own time.  We solicit your prayers as we pass through this special period of development.