College Park is a Jesus-ruled, elder-led, congregationally-governed church.
Jesus-Ruled
There is no greater authority in the local church than Jesus Christ. Jesus is the head of the Church (Eph. 5:23) and the Chief Shepherd over us (1 Pet. 5:4). Therefore, Jesus rules the Church, and what he commands is what we are called to obey as a Church.
Elder-Led
Under the rule of Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, God appoints under-shepherds to give spiritual oversight to the local church. These elders are entrusted with knowing, leading, feeding, and protecting the church (1 Pet. 5:1-5). The qualifications for men to serve as elders are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9.
Congregationally-Governed
At College Park Church, we believe that the congregation is comprised of people who have been saved by Christ, baptized in obedience, and are covenanted together. These members are called to have an active role in decisions that affect the church (Matt. 18:15-20; Acts 6:1-6; 1 Cor. 5:1-13). We believe that the congregation is the final earthly authority in a local church—even as these members are led by elders to which they submit (Heb. 13:17).
What Do Members Vote On?
Although elders are voted into office by the members and are given the freedom to make many decisions in regard to the leadership of the church, members vote directly on key issues such as:
- The annual budget
- The election of elders and deacons
- The hiring of pastors
- New members
- Member discipline
To learn more about membership at College Park Church, visit yourchurch.com/membership.