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1. Congregational Leadership from a Spiritual Perspective
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Congregations possess certain characteristics similar to worldly organizations. For example, they may own valuable assets. They may receive financial revenues, employ people and pay salaries and other expenses. They benefit their communities by extending aid to those in need.
Nevertheless, these do not define what churches are all about. The earthly organizational attributes must not overshadow the spiritual responsibilities of churches and their elected leaders. The church is unlike any other organization on earth. Thus, those chosen to lead her need to be uniquely qualified.
This section summarizes some of the principles and provides discussion questions from Chapter 9 “Not Just Another Organization” (Built on the Rock, pages 158-172).
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Leadership is vital in any organization. The term “leader” can be described in a number of ways. What are some common one-word descriptions that come to mind when you hear the term “leader?”
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Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
Organizer, Chairman, Elder, Pastor, Manager | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/24/2025 |
Organizer, Chairman, Elder, Pastor, Manager | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/24/2025 |
Chief, director, manager, servant, | martinroy.perso@gmail.com | 10/06/2025 |
path-setter, direction-finder, task-master | revtonyappel@gmail.com | 08/05/2025 |
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2.
While churches sometimes ask members to serve leadership positions without other qualification, the Bible identifies key characteristics for those appointed to serve as leaders in the church. From the following passages, indicate what leaders are referenced and identify some of the qualifications listed.
1 Timothy 3:1-7
Acts 6:2-4
1 Timothy 3:8-13
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Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. 2. Commit to personal daily devotions. 3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. 4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. 5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. 6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. 1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. 2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. 4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. 5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. 6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. 7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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3.
In light of the fact that all men are sinful (Romans 3:10-12), how would you define “above reproach” in 1 Timothy 3:2? (Consider 1 John 1:8-10 for part of your answer.)
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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4.
Read 1 Timothy 4:11-16. In verse 12, Paul instructs Timothy to set an example for the believers. Provide three examples of how this might be applied today in any of the areas of speech, conduct, love, faith or purity.
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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Noting verse 16, in what two areas does St. Paul urge leaders to persevere? Which is most important? Why?
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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5.
Church leaders face numerous challenges. What frustrates you most in your service as a church leader? (List as many as you can - separating your answers with a comma ",")
Later on, you will see the list you and others have identified. You’ll be asked to apply what you learn from the next two questions to the list.
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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6.
Considering the following verses, what do you believe church leaders should be doing in providing spiritual leadership?
Joshua 1:8
Acts 2:42
Colossians 3:16
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. 2. Commit to personal daily devotions. 3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. 4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. 5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. 6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. 1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. 2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. 4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. 5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. 6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. 7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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7.
What do the following verses suggest that church leaders should be doing in providing church leadership?
Philippians 4:6
1 Timothy 2:1-2
James 5:16
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. 2. Commit to personal daily devotions. 3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. 4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. 5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. 6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. 1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. 2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. 4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. 5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. 6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. 7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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8.
On the blackboard, we captured the frustrations you and others in your group shared in question 5. Check the responses that have a significant spiritual component. Note what percentage of your collective answers have a significant spiritual component.
100% have spiritual component
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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9.
In light of your answers to questions 6, 7 & 8 above, what does that suggest to you about being a spiritual leader?
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
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10.
How does this sample board agenda compare to a typical agenda for your board meetings?
After you answer this question, we'll explore a recommended agenda!
Elder Board Agenda
-
Opening devotion (led by pastor)
-
Approval of minutes
-
Pastor's report of official acts
-
Putting out fires (discussing current crises)
-
Old business
-
New business
-
Elder's service schedule (for serving at worship services)
-
Closing prayer (Lord's Prayer)
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Page 1 of 464
Let's estimate the time your board spends in prayer and devotion:
ALL CAPS TITLE
Now let's compare to a recommended agenda
(click here)
Board of Elders Agenda
Opening Devotion 10 minutes
Bible study 45 minutes (minimum;
sometimes more than
an hour)
Approval of minutes
Discussion on pastor’s report
Discussion on elder reports
Business to be considered
Questions on service schedule
Closing prayer 15 minutes minimum
(up to 25 minutes)
Total Number of Minutes/Meeting
in the Word & Prayer 70
Number of Meetings per year x 12
Total Number of Minutes/Year
in the Word & Prayer 840
Annual minimum of 14 hours
in prayer & God’s Word
11.
In light of the Scriptures you have reviewed regarding spiritual leadership, what changes would you make to your board’s agenda to reflect more focus on the Word and prayer?”
Responses | Author | Created Date |
|---|---|---|
<span style="font-size: 1.5em">1. Commit to regularly attending Bible study. <br/>2. Commit to personal daily devotions. <br/>3. Commit to personally visiting members in my assigned zone of responsibility. <br/>4. Preparing one or more devotions that I can use in my home visits. <br/>5. (If not the chairperson) Commit to preparing any reports for my board and sending them to the chairperson at the time requested. <br/>6. (If the chairperson) Commit to requesting reports well ahead of meetings, preparing, and sending in advance the agenda, minutes, and all reports to those responsible for attending the meeting. <br/>1. Commit at least 30 minutes per meeting for studying the Word together as a board. <br/>2. Commit at least 15 minutes per meeting for prayer together as a board. Each board person will pray for someone in his/her zone. <br/>4. Commit to reviewing all reports between meetings so that our time together can be better spent discussing and making decisions. <br/>5. Commit to organizing our board so that every member is visited regularly every year. <br/>6. Commit as a board to getting together one Sunday evening per month for calling to make appointments for home visits to members. <br/>7. Commit to regular performance reviews for our pastor(s), prioritizing listing things that he does well, identifying one or two areas for improvement, and together developing a continuing education plan supported by the congregation. <br/> PLUS: Meet with the Pastor, Board of Elders and Church Councel and share what I've learned on this course and how I've been inspired to be a better Chairperson through better devotions and meetings with congregation members. Voter's member meetings will include better devotional time through scripture reading and including members of the congregation not yet serving on a board etc. </span> | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
The Prophet Isaiah in 50:4 wrote, "The Soverereign Lord Has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the Word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed." In this busy world we may feal weary or just too old to grow in spiritual wisdom and perhaps to weary to serve him. All of us need to strengthen our resolve through Bible study and prayer. All of us should stive to take on s renewed Christian Spirit every day. As members of God's Kingdom God calls us to rely on Him to conquer the barriers between who we think we are and who God wants us to be. God wants us to be a blessing to each other and assures us that He will help us do this. All we need to do is ask it in prayer. No matter what age we are we are assured we can face the future knowing God will always lead us to victory. This is what it means to be an overcomer. Remember, if your Bible is falling apart, it usually means that you are not. Obeying the Bible may be difficult, but is eccentual to live in harmony and humility. Let us pray: Loving Jesus, You are the one who goes before us to provide the way. As in John 14:6 it says that You are the way, and the truth, and the life. We humbly confess that we do not always know where we are going or how best to get there. You are the light of the world; be our light in a world of spiritual darkness. Keep our hearts and our feet moving in the right direction always. Jesus in Your heavenly and glorious name we pray. Amen | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Acts 6:2-4 Lay Leader: Lay leaders should run things like food programs, VBS, etc.<br/>1 Timothy 3:1-7 Lay Leader: Elders, which are lay leaders, a man above reproach that helps the Pastor lead the church.<br/>1 Timothy 3:8:13 Lay Leader: Deacons, men of good character and high moral standards. | danoystryk@gmail.com | 10/27/2025 |
Page 1 of 464
If you increase time spent in Bible study and prayer, does that mean that you will have extra long meetings? That’s not necessary if you change the way you conduct business! See Lesson 2 for making your meetings meaningful and effective.
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