How Pilgrim is led and the biblical foundation for our structure.
Christ-Centered, Pastor-Led
Pilgrim Baptist Church functions under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ. We do not operate as a democracy run by the will of members or rule of the people. Instead, we are a spiritual body led by a pastor who serves as under-shepherd, with the counsel and assistance of deacons, elders, and trustees.
This leadership structure reflects the New Testament pattern, where God appoints spiritual leaders to shepherd, teach, and oversee the local church. The congregation submits to this leadership as they faithfully teach and apply God's Word.
(Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Timothy 3:1-13; 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:1-4)
The Pastor
The pastor serves as the primary bible teacher of the church under the authority of Jesus Christ and the direction of God's Word. His responsibilities include:
Preaching and Teaching
The pastor shall preach the gospel regularly and faithfully teach all the counsel of God's Word from the Authorized King James Bible. He has full liberty to preach on any biblical topic as the Spirit leads, without restriction or censorship from the congregation.
In matters of biblical interpretation and application, the pastor has authority to make final determinations, provided those interpretations align with Pilgrim Baptist Church's doctrinal statement and convictions on life and family.
Administering Church Ordinances
The pastor administers the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper, ensuring they are conducted biblically and with proper reverence.
Overseeing Church Life
The pastor:
Scheduling and Property Use
All appointments for public worship, Bible study, and church activities - including times, locations, and property use - are under the pastor's oversight. With the counsel of deacons, trustees, and church leaders, the pastor determines:
Pulpit Supply
The pastor is responsible to fill the pulpit for each regularly scheduled service and special meeting. In his absence, he (or the deacons, trustees, or leaders in his stead) shall invite speakers from within the membership or outside the church who will preach in a manner consistent with our statement of faith.
Safety and Protection
The pastor, along with church leadership, establishes and enforces mandatory safety and security procedures for all ministries and programs. This includes:
The pastor's authority in these matters exists to protect the vulnerable, maintain biblical order, and ensure the church fulfills its mission faithfully.
(Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 5:17; 2 Timothy 4:1-5; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1-4)
The Role of Deacons
Deacons serve the church by assisting the pastor in promoting spiritual welfare, conducting services, and overseeing the practical and business affairs of the church. They represent the membership and are recommended by the pastor based on their proven character, spiritual maturity, and faithfulness.
Responsibilities of Deacons:
Deacons work collaboratively with other church leaders, providing counsel and assistance to the pastor in decisions concerning the church's welfare and work.
(Acts 6:1-7; 1 Timothy 3:8-13; Philippians 1:1)
Appointing a Deacon
The pastor alone recommends men for the office of deacon. The appointment process is as follows:
Week 1-2: The pastor announces his recommendation from the pulpit. All church members are given a two-week period to speak with the recommended deacon and/or the pastor regarding this decision. Members who desire to be heard will have opportunity to share concerns or affirmations.
Decision Point: After two weeks, the pastor announces whether the church will move forward with the appointment.
Week 3-4 (if proceeding): A final two-week period is given for the pastor to meet with other deacons and leaders to confirm this is the right decision.
Final Announcement: The pastor publicly recognizes and installs the new deacon.
This process ensures transparency, allows for congregational input, and gives leadership time for prayerful confirmation.
Biblical Qualifications for Deacons
The following qualifications from 1 Timothy 3:8-13 are requirements, not suggestions. A man must meet all of these qualifications to serve as a deacon. This is not a "pick and choose" list.
Personal Character:
Grave (dignified) - Down to earth, relatable, and approachable. Not someone prone to fits of rage or instability, but a man of substance and steadiness.
Not double-tongued (honest in speech) - Cannot be deceitful or make contradictory remarks depending on his audience. He speaks the same truth to the pastor, the congregation, and everyone else.
Not given to much wine (sober) - As a saved man full of joy and eternal life, he has no need for wine or strong drink. Alcohol or drugs may be used only for legitimate medicinal purposes in cases of illness or medical necessity.
Not greedy of filthy lucre (not greedy) - This has nothing to do with being rich or poor. Greedy people exist at every income level. Since money flows through the church, leaders must be above reproach in financial matters. A deacon must be a faithful giver, evidencing that he is not controlled by money. We have zero tolerance for anyone attempting to "buy" leadership position through large donations.
Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience (doctrinally sound) - His conscience must be governed by biblical principles and led by the Holy Spirit. The congregation should see evidence that he holds firmly to sound doctrine with integrity.
First be proved (proven faithful) - A man must demonstrate his faithfulness before being appointed, not promise what he would do if given the office. His track record of service and character should already be evident to the congregation.
Being found blameless (above reproach) - This does not mean sinless, but blameless - his character and conduct must not bring reproach upon Christ or the church.
Family Requirements:
Husband of one wife - A deacon must be a man (only men have wives) who has been married once and remains married to that one wife. A man who has been divorced and remarried does not meet this qualification, as he would have had two wives (not "one wife at a time," but "one wife" period).
Ruling their children and their own houses well - A married deacon must have children (biological or adopted) whom he and his wife are raising biblically together. He must demonstrate godly leadership in his home. If a man has lost his house financially (cannot pay bills) or spiritually (family in rebellion or chaos), he is not qualified. A man who has bankrupted his own household will bankrupt the church.
Qualifications for a Deacon's Wife:
The wife of a deacon must also meet biblical qualifications, as she will naturally be involved in her husband's ministry:
Grave (dignified) - Like her husband, she must be down to earth, relatable, and approachable. A deacon will discuss church matters with his wife, so her character matters.
Not a slanderer - She must guard her tongue carefully. She cannot be a gossip, tale-bearer, or someone who always has something negative to say about others.
Sober (self-controlled) - She must be sober physically, mentally, and emotionally. This means no drunkenness or drug use, and also no pride or being "drunk with herself." She must be balanced, wise, and self-controlled in all areas of life.
The Reward of Faithful Service:
"For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree" (1 Timothy 3:13)
We don't care about academic degrees, titles like "Dr." or "Reverend," or worldly credentials. The "good degree" we seek is the degree of a humble servant - someone who serves as a great example and points our congregation to the Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful deacons earn respect, spiritual authority, and the privilege of greater usefulness in God's kingdom.
(1 Timothy 3:8-13)
Elders and Trustees
Elders and trustees serve alongside the pastor and deacons to provide godly counsel, wisdom, and practical assistance in specific areas of church life. They support the pastor's leadership and ministry, helping to ensure the church is cared for both spiritually and practically.
(1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-4)
Serving vs. Leading
All church members are encouraged to participate and serve in ministry activities. However, those who desire to lead ministries - such as teaching Sunday School, leading worship, conducting prayer meetings, overseeing evangelistic outreaches, or directing other church ministries - must meet specific biblical qualifications.
Who Are Ministry Leaders?
Ministry leaders include those who:
Qualifications for Ministry Leadership
To serve in a leadership capacity at Pilgrim, members must:
1. Be an Active, Faithful Member
Note: Absences due to illness, surgery recovery, work requirements, family emergencies, or other reasonable circumstances do not disqualify someone from leadership. Faithfulness is measured by consistent commitment, not perfect attendance.
2. Be Scripturally Baptized
If a member cannot obey the Lord in believer's baptism, it would be unreasonable to expect them to faithfully lead others in obedience to Christ.
(Acts 2:41; Romans 6:3-4)
3. Fully Affirm Church Doctrine
Leaders represent the church's teaching and must be able to uphold and teach what we believe without reservation or contradiction.
4. Give Faithfully and Cheerfully
Leaders model generosity and trust in God's provision for the body.
(1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:7)
5. Not Be a Member of Secret Societies
Such organizations require oaths and allegiances that conflict with exclusive devotion to Christ and biblical transparency.
6. Be Available for Leadership Collaboration
The Difference Between Participation and Leadership
All members may participate and serve in appropriate ministries without meeting these leadership requirements. For example:
However, those who lead, teach, or represent the church in official ministry capacities must meet the qualifications above. This protects both the integrity of the ministry and the spiritual health of those being led.
(1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; James 3:1)
Ecclesiastical Authority
All determinations regarding the internal affairs of the church are ecclesiastical matters and are decided according to the church's own biblical convictions and procedures. These matters are resolved internally by church leadership under the authority of Scripture, not by external influence or secular processes.
The pastor, with the counsel of deacons, elders, and trustees, oversees and conducts all aspects of church life and ministry.
Member Input and Spiritual Gifts
While final decisions rest with church leadership, members play an important role:
God gives every believer spiritual gifts for the building up of the body. Leadership recognizes this and welcomes member participation in appropriate ways.
(Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-31; Ephesians 4:11-16)
Why We Don't Vote or Hold Business Meetings
The New Testament does not command churches to conduct business meetings or practice congregational voting. Instead, Scripture emphasizes prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, and godly leadership making decisions according to God's Word.
At Pilgrim, we do not hold monthly business meetings or take congregational votes. We believe this approach protects the church from common pitfalls that often accompany democratic church governance:
How Members Have Input
Instead of voting, all church members have the biblical right to approach the pastor and deacons with any matter of concern. This is not optional for leadership - the pastor and deacons are required to:
This approach ensures every voice can be heard while maintaining godly order and unity.
(Proverbs 15:22; Acts 15:1-35; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1-3)
Questions or concerns? Contact Pastor Fortunato directly.
Serious Teaching. Strong Families. Biblical Authority.
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170 4th Ave. Cookeville, TN 38506
