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Study 12 of 12

Session 12—The Nominating Committee and the Church Board

The organizational structure that ensures accountability, order, and unity in the mission of the local church.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

The church is an organized body, and its leadership structure is designed to facilitate mission rather than exert control. The Nominating Committee is tasked with the prayerful selection of officers, seeking individuals whose spiritual gifts align with their roles for a specified term of service. Once elected, these officers work together as members of the Church Board, which is the chief administrative body of the local congregation. The board coordinates the work of all departments, ensuring that every ministry is aligned with the church’s mission and that resources are used wisely. Accountability is central to this process; leaders report to the board and, ultimately, to the church business meeting, fostering a spirit of transparency and trust. By working as one body with many members, the church demonstrates the unity and order that Christ desires, allowing every officer to contribute their part toward the final proclamation of the gospel.

Key points

  • The Nominating Committee prayerfully matches spiritual gifts to church offices.
  • The Church Board is the chief administrative body, coordinating all departments.
  • Accountability and transparency are essential for trust in church leadership.
  • Church organization exists to facilitate mission, not to exercise control.
  • Unity in diversity is modeled by the 'one body, many members' concept.

Key texts

  • 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
  • 1 Corinthians 14:40
  • Acts 6:1-6

From the book

Session 12 · Church Manual; 1 Cor 12:12 · Read the Quick Start Guide

  • “The nominating committee is appointed to nominate officers for the ensuing year(s). The committee should represent a cross section of the church membership.”
  • “The church board is responsible for coordinating all aspects of the church's spiritual and administrative life.”

Put it into practice

  • Review the Church Manual section on the Nominating Committee to understand the selection process.
  • Ensure that each department head is submitting a brief monthly report to the Church Board.
  • Schedule a 'Leadership Orientation' for all newly elected officers to clarify their roles and how they work together.
  1. Comprehension

    1. What is the primary task of the Nominating Committee?

  2. Comprehension

    2. Under whose direction does the church board operate?

  3. Scripture

    3. What does 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 teach about church organization?

  4. Scripture

    4. Why is 'order' emphasized in 1 Corinthians 14:40?

  5. Doctrinal Clarity

    5. What is the role of the board regarding departmental coordination?

  6. Scripture

    6. How does the selection of the seven in Acts 6:1-6 model church organization?

  7. Contrast

    7. What is the difference between leadership as 'status' versus 'role'?

  8. Application

    8. How can you better support your local church board in its mission-centered work?