Providence is led by a plurality of elders rather than by a single personality. These men shepherd the church together under the headship of Jesus Christ.
You'll hear us use the words pastor and elder interchangeably, because the Bible does. The New Testament uses elder, overseer, and shepherd (pastor) for one and the same office (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5–7; 1 Peter 5:1–2).
The elders are responsible for the spiritual oversight of the church. They are called to model the godly life described in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 and to lead as men who are themselves following Jesus by the power of the Spirit. They counsel, teach, and shepherd the flock, and they remain sheep who need the Good Shepherd as much as anyone.
Guarding the teaching of the church and keeping it faithful to Scripture.
Providing spiritual direction and vision for the life and mission of the church.
Caring for members through loving correction, always with the aim of restoration (Galatians 6:1).
Overseeing the church's finances with integrity and careful stewardship.
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.”Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
Staff elders serve on our pastoral staff. Lay elders shepherd the church alongside their work and family life.
Scripture requires that elders be men of proven character: humble, faithful, and above reproach (1 Timothy 3:1–7). Their lives matter because they will give an account for the souls in their care (Hebrews 13:17).
Providence holds a complementarian view of leadership in the home and the church. Men and women are equally made in God's image, and Scripture reserves the office of elder for qualified men (1 Timothy 2:12–3:7). Elder candidates are examined and affirmed through a process overseen by the current elders.
Read what we believe →Our elders would be glad to meet with you, pray with you, or answer your questions. Email info@providencetx.org and we'll connect you.