In the Greek language, the term "pastor" is poimen and means, “shepherd.”

In Ephesians 4:11-16, Paul speaks of four offices of the New Testament church – apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher. The Pastor-Teacher is Spirit called and gifted for the task of leading the church, equipping the believers to do the work of the ministry, teaching Biblical doctrine, and helping the church appropriately apply Biblical truth. The Pastor-Teacher is the Elder/under-shepherd for the congregation and should be seen as such with appropriate and healthy expectations.

Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Peter 5:1- 2; Hebrews 13:17

The Elders are the primary spiritual leaders and overseers of the congregation. The term "elder" in the New Testament is interchangeable with pastor, shepherd, bishop and overseer.

Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-2

House Churches are a vital part of The Church at Tampa and will be an ongoing core value as we strive to equip, teach, and practice authentic Biblical community. Therefore, the House Church Leader is someone who fully embraces the House Church philosophy in word and practice.

The House Church Leaders are appointed by the Elders and are accountable to them for the ongoing health of the House Church they are shepherding. Each House Church is to stay connected to the congregation in all aspects of body life, and the House Church is never intended to become its own “church.”

The House Church Leader is responsible to accomplish the purpose for House Church and will be encouraged and equipped to be successful in that endeavor by the Elders.

Romans 12:1-21; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31

The term "deacon" in the Greek language is diakonos and means, “servant.” This term was used both for men and women who served the local congregations.

The Church at Tampa sees this Biblical office as an assistant to the Elders. The Deacon/ Deaconess are appointed by the Elders for the purpose to care for the physical and logistical needs of the church so that the Elders can concentrate on their primary calling. These individuals also serve for the purpose of executing and leading certain ministries as designated by the Elders.

This office is crucial to the on-going ministries of The Church at Tampa in the present and future.

Acts 6:1-7; Philippians 1:1-2; 1 Timothy 3:8-12; Romans 16:1-2

The Service Team Leader is tasked with overseeing, organizing, implementing, and visioning for the area of service in which they lead.

The Service Team Leader is appointed by the Elders.

The Service Team Leader is accountable to the Elders, and the Elders are responsible to equip, encourage, and do everything necessary to help the Service Team Leader be successful in their respective ministries.

Romans 12:1-21; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31

The New Testament teaches the congregation of a local church has authority to self-determination and governance as led by the Holy Spirit.

Acts 15:12, 22-25; Colossians 1:18; 1 Peter 2:9-10

The congregation of The Church at Tampa is part of the universal Bride of Jesus Christ. She is a group of followers who are united through Christ. The Church at Tampa has been granted authority to execute the Biblical mandate for the purposes of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, being led by the Holy Spirit in all aspects of her Biblical responsibility. The congregation of The Church at Tampa is accountable to the Holy Spirit for her obedience to the Scriptures and through her Spirit-called leaders.

Hebrews 13:17

It is incumbent on the congregation, via each member, to advance the agenda of the Holy Spirit as given in the New Testament.

Hebrews 10:19-25