elder transition 2024

We are thankful and excited for a new chapter at Northampton!

Last Sunday (May 19, 2024), we voted overwhelmingly to transition to an Elder-led Church. Thank you to the many people who helped in this process, and we pray that God will continue to bless and enrich Northampton for years to come. We would also like to acknowledge our first Elders who have been approved and accredited for the position: John Fisher, Jeff Woods and Daniel Zinzow. We are planning an installation of Elders in the coming weeks to officially install them.

ROADMAP FOR ELDER-LED TRANSITION

UPDATE: APRIL 28, 2024

Northampton has historically been Board and Pastor-led as an organization. It became apparent that this form of leadership needed to change in order to align with the Biblical model of church leadership. In May 2024, we plan to make the shift to Elder-led, now that we have raised up, trained, vetted and accredited men to take on the role of Elder.
In addition, over the last year we have trained and raised up Deacons (whom we call Directors) to lead the way in facilitating ministry at Northampton in the context of our Northampton Teams.

The Elder Roadmap helps show the steps to take to transition Northampton Bible Church from a Board led model to an Elder Team Leadership Model. An Eldership Team Leadership is one in which shepherding is done by a team of Elders, which includes Pastors and lay Elders.

Elders are entrusted with the governance of the Church. The Elder board’s oversight includes: teaching, protecting, leading, disciplining, equipping and caring for the Church body and its members as well as the oversight of all ministry, operations and finances of the Church. The Elders are also responsible for being obedient to the Scriptures in the doctrine of the Church, establishing the overall vision of the Church and appointing new Elders.

The current state of the church is a board-led model. This is one in which the shepherding and role of Elder is done by the Pastors. There is a board that consists of pastors, deacons, head of trustees, treasurer, missions director who vote on matters that impact the church.

(1) Cast Vision

This step of the roadmap is to share the vision of eldership with the congregation. This is done through sermon series and discussions within life groups. This step has been done in early 2022.

(2) Update Constitution

This step of the roadmap is to update the constitution to an Elder Team Leadership structure. The current constitution is board centered and the new constitution is focused on the elder team leadership model.
This step has finished the draft phase and waiting for legal review. (June 2022)

(3) Organization Chart

This step of the roadmap is to create an organization of how to the Elder Team Leadership model is organized in the church and how it exactly impacts the ministries and church members. It helps to visualize the model that is expressed in the constitution. This step is in progress. (June 2022)

(4) Congregation Readout/Feedback

This step of the roadmap is to share with the congregation the updated constitution and organization chart. This includes explaining the changes and the impact; providing time for the congregation to ask questions; and seek feedback and changes that need to be made.
This is an important step as it is critical to ensure the congregation understands the process and changes and has an opportunity to give feedback and be part of the process.
This step was completed in 2022-23 with the Constitution being made available to the Congregation via print and this page.

(5) Identify & Train Elders

This step of the roadmap is to raise up Elders in the church to participate in the Elder Team Leadership. This includes identifying potential Elders, training those candidates, and vetting the candidates for final approval as an Elder.
It is important to take the appropriate time with this step as we don't want to rush the process and ensure we have candidates who meet the biblical qualifications of elders and willing and capable to be shepherds of the church.
The training of elders for Accreditation and Approval has been completed. Accreditation quizzes are underway with final Accreditation interviews taking place in March 2024. Once approved, these candidates will be put forth for Congregational awareness.

(6) Identify & Train Deacons

This step of the roadmap is to raise up Deacons (whom carry the title of "Director") in the church that are part of the Elder Team Leadership model. This includes identifying potential Deacons, training those candidates, and vetting the candidates for final approval as a Deacon.
It is important to take the appropriate time with this step as we don't want to rush the process and ensure we have candidates who meet the Biblical qualifications of Deacons and willing and capable to be servants of the church. Ministry is facilitated and led in the context of teams.

(7) Congregational Approval

Once the previous steps are complete, the updated constitution and the recommended Elders and Deacons will be presented to the congregation for approval. The plan is to have this approval ready to be ratified in May 2024.

(8) Enact Elder Team Leadership

Once the constitution and candidates are approved by the congregation, then Northampton Bible Church will formally function following the Elder Team Leadership model outlined in the constitution.

CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS

With a change in leadership structure, there is a need for an organizational document that reflects those changes. This new document can be accessed here. Should you have any feedback, questions, potential edits, please email office@nbchurchcf.org.

Download Constitution & Bylaws

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can be an Elder?

The minimum qualifications for Elders shall not be less than those listed in Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7:
Titus 1:5-9
“I left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you. 6 An elder must live a blameless life. He must be faithful to his wife, and his children must be believers who don’t have a reputation for being wild or rebellious. 7 A church leader is a manager of God’s household, so he must live a blameless life. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered; he must not be a heavy drinker, violent, or dishonest with money. 8 Rather, he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must love what is good. He must live wisely and be just. He must live a devout and disciplined life. 9 He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.”
1 Timothy 3:1-7
“This is a trustworthy saying: “If someone aspires to be a church leader, he desires an honorable position.” 2 So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach. 3 He must not be a heavy drinker] or be violent. He must be gentle, not quarrelsome, and not love money. 4 He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. 5 For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church? 6 A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. 7 Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap.”

Are Elders supported financially by the church?

Within the Elder Leadership team there are Vocational Elders and Lay Elders.

Vocational Elders are financially supported by the church and include people commonly referred to as Pastors. Our current Pastor will be an Elder as we transition to the Elders model.
Lay Elders are not financially supported. They are men who are qualified and approved to be Elders but receive financial support via other means than the church itself.

Are we eliminating the role of Deacon?

No but we are updating the role to be more aligned with Scripture.
In the new organization model, Elders lead ministry, Deacons facilitate ministry, and the Partners do the work of ministry. The Elders are called to “direct the affairs of the church” (1 Timothy 5:17), and Deacons are called to support that direction. The Elders make directional decisions while Deacons facilitate congregational involvement to make that vision a reality.

What is the difference between a Deacon vs an Elder?

The qualifications for Elder and Deacon are very similar, with the difference being that Elders must also be able to teach and are required to be a male.
Based on our understanding of 1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:5, Acts 6:1-7, Deacons support Elders in leading the congregation. Deacons are appointed by elders to serve the church.
Thus, Elders lead ministry, Deacons facilitate ministry, and the congregation do the work of ministry

What’s the “win”, what does the church gain from becoming an elder led church?

What is difference between constitution and bylaws?

The constitution includes the organizational structure of Northampton Bible Church and is detailed in this document. It also is replicated in the Articles of Incorporation that are on file with the state of Ohio that establish Northampton Bible Church as a non-profit corporation. Articles of Incorporation are a set of documents filed with a government body to legally document a corporation and contain the organization’s
organizational structure which consists of name, location, and purpose.
The Bylaws are the operational structure of an organization which explains the rules the organization uses for operations. The bylaws play a vital role in how the church functions for legal purposes and its provisions are legally enforceable. Thus, a church’s bylaws must be specifically tailored to meet the needs, practices, and beliefs of the church. The church’s bylaws do not replace the Bible as the authority for the operation of the church, but the bylaws should certainly contain the church’s most important beliefs and seek to codify those beliefs in many respects.

How long do Elders serve?

Each Elder shall hold office as long as he is faithful to his calling and has the confidence of his fellow elders and the congregation. The task of Eldership is significant and is accomplished while continuing care of family and other responsibilities. Individual Elders may need to take leave of some or all of the responsibilities of Eldership for periods of time. Such times will be arranged through mutual consent of the Elders.

Can women serve as Elders?

Based on our understanding of 1 Timothy 2:12; 3:2 and Titus 1:5, Elders (overseers, pastors) are to be men. Just as Paul teaches male headship in the family, he teaches male headship in the local church (1 Tim. 2:8-3:7). Because the family is the basic social unit and the man is the established family authority, we should expect that men would become the elders of the larger church family. While there are other roles within the church that can be held by both men and women (for example - the role of deacon), the role of an Elder is to be held by faithful men who meet the qualifications.

Why Elder-led? We have a Board that makes decisions now, what is the difference with Elder-led? What changes?

First, an Elder Led church is more aligned with Scripture (Titus 1:5-7; 1 Peter 5:1-3)
There are many pragmatic reasons why a church might have elders. A plurality of elders can help to carry the burden of pastoral ministry; they can bring a rich variety of experience to bear on the issues and problems every pastor faces; they can hold the spiritual leaders accountable in a context of shared ministry; they can save the pastor and other elders from a multitude of errors in judgment.
Overseeing a congregation and caring for it is a challenging, yet rewarding and God-glorifying task, and is not intended for one individual to handle on their own. Thus the value and need to have multiple shepherds to support and help each other and congregation.
Titus 1:5-7 “left you on the island of Crete so you could complete our work there and appoint elders in each town as I instructed you. 6 An elder must live a blameless life. He must be faithful to his wife, and his children must be believers who don’t have a reputation for being wild or rebellious. 7 A church leader is a manager of God’s household, so he must live a blameless life. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered; he must not be a heavy drinker, violent, or dishonest with money.”
1 Peter 5:1-3 “And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: 2 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. 3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example.

How are the elders held accountable to the membership?

1 Timothy 5:19-21 gives us the answers. In this passage, God prescribes a system precisely for these circumstances. The apostle Paul issues direct commands for how the church must deal with an elder who is caught in sin. He says,
"Do not receive an accusation against an elder except from two or three witnesses. Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear. I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality."
Any church member with reason to believe that an Elder should be dismissed should express such concern, based on Scripture, to the Elders for their consideration. Discipline of Elders must be consistent with the standards set forth in the Bylaws, wherein Matthew 18:15-17 and 1 Timothy 5:19-21 are the guides for discipline process. Where the steps of discipline are exhausted in cases of unrepentant and/or habitual sin, the Elders will consider removing a person from membership with the hope of eventual reconciliation and restoration.

Do elders make all decisions or do I, as a member, have a role in decision making?

Membership isn’t just about voting or attending meetings but instead is more about being a partner.

This includes: Serving in ministry using your God-given talents to edify the body, Connecting with others, Discipling others and being discipled.

Partners will have input in:
-- Recommending elder candidates
-- Recommending deacon candidates
-- Participating in church discipline
-- Voting on major decisions such as:
+ Loans >20% of operating budget
+ Disposition of all church assets
+ Merger/dissolution of church
+ Bylaw changes to members’ rights
+ Actions deemed major/extraordinary by Elders

Elder Candidates

These are the current Elder candidates being considered for approval in May 2024

DANIEL ZINZOW

Deacon, LIFE Group Director, Speaker / Teacher

Completed Accreditation: March 18, 2024

JEFF WOODS

Deacon

Completed Accreditation: March 18, 2024

JOHN FISHER

Deacon, LIFE Group Leader, Facilities Director

Completed Accreditation: March 18, 2024

If you know of someone you would like to put forward for consideration as an Elder (you must let them know you're putting them forward for consideration), or if you yourself are feeling called to be an Elder at Northampton, please let us know by emailing eldercandidate@nbchurchcf.org

BIBLICAL LEADERSHIP MESSAGE SERIES

This is the message series we used to present to the Congregation on the topics of church leadership, Elders and Deacons.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 01

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Explore the deep dive series into biblical church leadership and learn about the roles and impact of eldership in guiding the body of believers towards spiritual and relational health.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 02

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Explore the biblical perspective on the crucial role of Elders in church leadership, and understand the qualifications, responsibilities, and purpose behind this important position.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 03

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Explore the essential qualifications and characteristics of elders in the church as outlined in the scriptures. Discover how these qualifications can shape the lives of all followers of Jesus.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 04

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Understanding the qualifications and characteristics of spiritual leaders in the church is crucial for maintaining a healthy and thriving environment for spiritual growth and community.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 05

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Learn about the qualifications for elders in the church and the importance of the Word of God as the ultimate authority for all believers.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 06

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Learn about the qualifications, responsibilities, and biblical foundation for the important role of deacons in the church.

BIBLICAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP | WEEK 07

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Learn about the essential roles and responsibilities deacons in the church, and how they are crucial for the health and function of the congregation.

ELDER REQUIREMENTS

Eldership is a calling. Elders are Biblically qualified men who are appointed to this sacred duty of providing leadership, oversight and shepherding for the church. The process of becoming an Elder at Northampton requires men sense a call to that position (that is agreed upon by the Elder Leadership team), consistently meet the Biblical qualifications for an Elder, and complete a number of trainings, interviews, quizzes and examinations.

BIBLICAL CHARACTER QUALIFICATIONS

Above reproach - Requires that an elder be a model of integrity. He has a blameless reputation and no accusation made against him can stand (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6-7).
Husband of one wife - Requires that an elder be fully committed and faithful to his wife. He is without adulterous relationships or attitudes (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6). This does not prohibit a single man from serving.
Temperate - Requires that an elder be even-tempered, clear-headed and calm under pressure (1 Timothy 3:2).
Prudent - Requires that an elder be self-controlled, reasonable and clear-minded (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8).
Respectable - Requires that an elder be of good behavior, leading an orderly and well-balanced life (1 Timothy 3:2).
Hospitable - Requires that an elder open his heart and his home to others (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8).
Not addicted to wine - Requires that an elder not be given to drunkenness or be controlled by a habit of drinking (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).
Not pugnacious - Requires that an elder not be combative or quarrelsome (1 Timothy 3:3).
Gentle - Requires that an elder be fair, kind, yielding, forbearing and patient. He is sensitive to the needs of others (1 Timothy 3:3).
Uncontentious - Requires that an elder not be inclined to fight. He does not use abusive words and is not violent (1 Timothy 3:3).
Free from the love of money - Requires that an elder not be controlled by the pursuit of money or amassing material possessions (1 Timothy 3:3).
Not a new convert - Requires that an elder have a spiritual track record leading toward a mature faith (1 Timothy 3:6).
A good reputation with those outside the church - Requires that an elder have a good testimony in the community; he is respected by unbelievers (1 Timothy 3:7).
Not self-willed - Requires that an elder not be stubborn, overbearing or self-pleasing (Titus 1:7).
Not quick-tempered - Requires that an elder not be prone to outbursts of anger. He does not allow himself to be controlled by anger (Titus 1:7).
Not fond of sordid gain - Requires that an elder not be a crook or a cheat. He uses no improper means of acquiring things for himself or others. There are no questions about the way he handles his money (Titus 1:7).
Loving what is good - Requires that an elder value good things, good ways, good actions and good attitudes, as defined by the Scriptures (Titus 1:8).
Just - Requires that an elder lead a righteous lifestyle. In every situation, he desires to do what is pleasing in God’s eyes (Titus 1:8).
Devout - Requires that an elder lead a holy life that makes his relationship with Jesus Christ obvious to others (Titus 1:8).

FUNCTIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Manages his own household well - Requires that an elder be skillful in leading and providing for his family (1 Timothy 3:4-5).
Keeping his children under control - Requires that an elder who is a father command the respect and obedience of his children. His children do not have a reputation for leading an ungodly lifestyle (1 Timothy 3:4; Titus 1:6).
Able to teach - Requires that an elder have a knowledge of sound doctrine and a desire to share what he knows with others (1 Timothy 3:2).
Holding fast to the faithful Word - Requires that an elder pursue and embrace the Scriptures as God’s guiding truths for his life. He uses God’s Word to encourage and exhort others, as well as to reprove and correct those who oppose and disobey sound doctrine (Titus 1:9).