To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

1 Peter 5:1-4 NIV

Real Life Ministries is an Elder governed Church. The Elders are a group of volunteers that have been set apart for a special responsibility of oversight of the church body. The Elders function primarily as discerners and guardians of the organization.

They are not expected to oversee specific projects or ministry areas in their capacity as elders. They function as overseers for the entire organization. The elders evaluate the effectiveness and direction of the organization according to the church's mission, resources, and doctrinal statement.

Eldership is a position of the highest authority as it was in the first churches of the New Testament. (Acts 20:28; Philippians 1:1) We as the congregation therefore have a responsibility to follow their decisions and respect their authority.

Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.

Hebrews 13:17 NIV

The Elders are leaders of the church because they are servants of the church. (Matt. 23:1-12; Mark 9:34,35; 10:32-45) The Elders are also qualified for the position by clear proof of their personal relationship with the Lord (1Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:5-9) and a heartfelt desire for the work and leading of the Holy Spirit (1 Peter 5:2; Acts 20:28).

If you would like the Elders to pray for you in person (James 5:13-16) come to the church at 8:00 and they would be happy to hear and minister to you through prayer. The Elders’ prayer room is located at the top of the stairs in RLM #2 just behind the lobby area on the second floor.

If you have grievance, or theological question feel free to email the Elders at

asktheelders@reallifeministries.com