In Scripture, we find three distinct groups of people who exercise some form of leadership in the church: the congregation, consisting of all church members; elders, those men appointed to spiritual oversight in the church; and deacons, who serve the congregation in hands-on, practical ways.

At Northbrook, all of our Elders serves as Pastors who work together as under-shepherds of Jesus Christ. In their role as overseers, the Elders guide the church, particularly focusing on matters concerning teaching, preaching, and prayer. The Elders direct the spiritual life of the church at the pleasure of the congregation, handling matters relevant to the Word and prayer. The deacons, pictured not as a second legislative body but as a group of able servants, assist the elders by facilitating ministry.