Metanoia Church follows the example of the New Testament church in our leadership structure by having Elders and Deacons (c.f. Phil 1:1 & 1 Tim 3:1-13).

Elders (Pastors)

Elders–also called “overseers” or “pastors” interchangeably throughout the New Testament (c.f. Acts 20:17, 28; Eph 4:11; Titus 1:5, 7; 1 Pet 5:1-2)–lead the church as the primary spiritual leadership. Metanoia refers to our Elders as “Pastors.”

Men qualified to serve as Elders of Metanoia must meet the following qualifications for service according to Scripture (1 Tim 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Pet 5:1-4).

1. He is a mature Christian. He is not a new convert nor is he self-willed. He is above reproach, wise, prudent, devout, puts others above himself and loves what is good.
2. He is a disciplined Christian. He is self-controlled and free from love of money. He is not addicted to much wine nor is he quick tempered
3. He leads his family well. The Elder is the husband of one wife, manages his household well and, if he has children they are well-behaved and submissive to his authority. It is not necessary for a man to be married to serve as an Elder for Metanoia Church.
4. He is respected in the church and outside the church. He demonstrates a well-ordered life and good behavior. He is hospitable, gentle, humble, not given to argue and free from hypocrisy or scandal.
5. He humbly submits to the authority of Scripture. He is able to teach and defend the Word of God. He makes fair and impartial decisions based upon Scripture

Deacons

In the New Testament, Deacons are described as carrying out the ministries and tasks of the church, with a special focus on serving the poor and needy within the church. The “proto” or “pre” Deacon ministry description is found in Acts 6:1-7 where the Apostles were overwhelmed with their responsibilities in addition to meeting the ministerial needs of persons within the church. Deacon leadership was created to allow those leaders responsible for the spiritual oversight of the church through ministry of Word and prayer to continue in their ministry. Thus, the service focus of Deacon leadership complements the spiritual oversight of Elders.

Men and women appointed to serve as Deacons of Metanoia Church must meet the following qualifications for service according to Scripture (Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:8-13):

1. Full of faith. Deacons live in such a way that their faith in Jesus is natural, inspiring and authentic. They can clearly present their convictions and beliefs about Jesus.
2. Full of the Holy Spirit. Deacons do not lean on and trust in their own strength, talents and abilities to grow as disciples or to carry out the work of the ministry. They rely on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, trust in grace and demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit in their life. They are not filled with wine (addicted to much wine), but filled with the Spirit.
3. Full of wisdom. Deacons must be sober, sensible, wise, balanced in judgment and not given to quick, superficial decisions based on immature thinking.
4. Demonstrating a healthy family life. If married, Deacons exemplify themselves as faithful, devoted and affectionate toward their spouses. If they have children under their authority, these children should be well behaved. Their household is well ordered and healthy, providing an example for others. It is not necessary for a person to be married in order to serve as a Deacon for Metanoia Church.
5. Possessing exemplary character. Deacons demonstrate integrity through honorable character, word and deed and are thus worthy of respect. They do not speak deceptively and they fulfill their commitments. They are generous with material possessions and do not pursue material gain. They have a tested track record that presents no patterns of spiritual disobedience or grounds for accusation.
6. Respected in the church and the community. Deacons are respected by members of Metanoia Church and the community at large.

Leadership Council

Metanoia’s Leadership Council is made up of our Elders, Deacons, ministry team leaders, and appointed officers: Treasurer and Clerk. The Council meets three times a year for the purposes of communication, planning, and visioning.