In this episode of the Know and Do Podcast, we’re exploring how God designed structure and leadership for His church. From Genesis to Acts, Scripture shows that God values order—and that carries into how the church is governed today.

We’ll unpack Acts 6:2–4 and 1 Timothy 3:1–13 to answer three key questions:

1. Who leads the church?

2. What kind of people are called to lead?

3. How should we treat our leaders?

Main Points

1. Who Leads the Church

• Christ is the true head of the church (Col. 1:18).

• God calls two types of leaders: elders/pastors (spiritual oversight) and deacons (practical service).

• Elders focus on prayer and the Word; deacons meet needs and maintain unity.

2. What Kind of People Lead

• Leadership is about character, not charisma.

• 1 Timothy 3 gives clear qualifications—above reproach, self-controlled, hospitable, faithful, and spiritually mature.

• Only Jesus perfectly meets these standards, but by His grace, He equips men to lead well.

3. How We Treat Our Leaders

• The church is God’s household, “a pillar and buttress of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15).

• We’re called to honor, pray for, and encourage our leaders—holding them accountable with grace.

• God’s church thrives when leadership follows His design.

• Know God’s order. Do your part—pray, support, and serve faithfully.

Handout Link