The New Testament teaches us that the office of elder should exist within every local Church. Elders are those biblically qualified men who serve Christ and the members of a local covenant community by leading the church. Elders exert spiritual authority over a congregation through teaching, protecting, guiding, and shepherding God's people (1 Thessalonians 5:12).
According to 1 Timothy 5:17 the elders of the church are appointed by God to rule well over the congregation, therefore Green Run has entrusted it's leadership to the Council of Elders under the authority of Christ. The elders are men from within the membership of the church who have met biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9), exhibited a God-given desire to perform the duties of an elder, and received affirmation by the members to do so. These men are responsible for governing the church, shepherding the flock, and having oversight of the spiritual affairs of the body (1 Timothy 5:17). The elders are co-equals in authority but may be specialized in function.
The qualifications for deacons are found in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Deacons are to be men of dignity, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. These men must also first be tested, then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. Paul goes on to add that men must be the husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their households.