We hold that Scripture contains three primary teachings about church leadership:

• There is to be a plurality of elders and pastors

• They are to be qualified (I Tim. 3:1-5; Titus 2)

• They are to be men (I Tim. 3:1-5)

In addition, PBC elders and pastors have equal authority. The Scriptures view both with the same degree of authority.

Practically, decisions have elder approval and unanimity. This approach is not impractical but rather encourages communication, protects unity and necessitates consistent prayer. If elders strive to selflessly please Christ (Phil. 2:5-8) then unanimity is not only possible, but prefered.

Multiple passages explicitly and implicitly instruct the local church to develop and appoint a group of elders (Acts 14:23, 15:2, 15:4, 15:22-23, 20:17; James 5:14; I Peter 5:1-5)

In addition, the Bible names elder and overseer (i.e. shepherd / pastor) interchangeably (Acts 14:23; I Tim. 3:1-5; Titus 1:7; I Peter 5:1-4)