This is a question we hear often. Which form of church governance is better? Mark, Mark, and Dan break down the issues surrounding this important question.

• Both are used with great impact and both have been used to great distraction.
• Why Southern Baptist haven’t historically appointed elders.
• The historic role of deacons in Southern Baptist life.
• Why the recent increase in elders among Southern Baptists?
• Questions to ask when considering elders
o Is what we are doing now working?
o Why do we need to change?
o How broad is the consensus of the leadership and membership to make the change?
o What happens if we don’t make the change at this time?
o Can we adjust our current model to adequately address the need?