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TEFC is an elder led, congregationally governed church.

This dynamic of authority and leading are seen throughout the book of Acts as an example of congregational life. Peter, as an elder, calls for the whole assembly (congregation) to decide on a twelfth apostle (Acts 1). The congregation is called together again by the elders to decide on another matter of serving those in the congregation (Acts 6). Peter reports directions of the Holy Spirit to the congregation and the congregation makes decisions on financial aid for churches in need (Acts 11). The church, again, comes together to agree on matters of practice proposed by the elders of the church (Acts 15).

These are just a few examples of this relationship between elder leadership and congregational agreement or affirmation. The elders provide care for the congregation and leadership founded on Scripture and wisdom. They are shepherding the church. The congregation, in turn, expresses their needs and provides a necessary confirmation of the leading from the elders. All are designed to seek the Lord’s will and proceed in unity and agreement. Elders lead as shepherds, serving the expressed and confirmed needs of the congregation, with the church proceeding together in agreement and unity.

Please consider the relationship that the following Scriptures refer to, allowing them to appreciate how we operate as a church but also to temper our actions and expectations of each other as we aim to fulfill the Great Commandments to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-40) and the Great Commission to make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20).

“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
- Hebrews 13:7,17

“So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you, not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those who are in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”
- 1 Peter 5:1-3