Table of Contents. Mosaic Ministry Strategy 19. Mosaic Core Beliefs 21. Mosaic Doctrinal Distinctives Word & Spirit 23 Unity through Diversity 24

Transcription

1 Family Covenant

2 Table of Contents Welcome to the Mosaic Family 5 What is a Family Covenant? Introduction 7 The Biblical use of Covenant 9 Details of the Family Covenant 11 Conditions of the Family Covenant 13 Mosaic Family Values 17 Mosaic Ministry Strategy 19 Mosaic Core Beliefs 21 Mosaic Doctrinal Distinctives Word & Spirit 23 Unity through Diversity 24 Mosaic Leadership Structure 27 Staff 29 Elders 31 2

3 Welcome to the Mosaic Family! Our Name A mosaic is a work of art made up of fragmented, diversely shaped and colored pieces brought together to form a greater, more beautiful picture. God desires His church to be a group of diverse people (racially, economically, generationally, socially, theologically, politically, etc.) who chose to unite around the Gospel of Jesus Christ so that together we display the beauty, power, and grace of God to our community. Our History Mosaic Church began meeting to pray and worship in January of Our first few months of worship were spent in the barn of Jeff & Jackie Badders. This was a sweet season for many of our people. In these months, the Lord was faithful and brought healing, direction and solidarity. He brought joy and peace, as we realized that God wanted to do something new in this city. He began to show us that the diverse ways we were corporately gifted could be used to reveal his great love for the city of Nacogdoches. After months of prayer and seeking the Lord s direction, Nacogdoches ISD agreed to allow Mosaic to meet on Sundays at McMichael Middle School. Mosaic moved to McMichael and began to worship on Easter Sunday, Our Mission and Vision We exist to see the kingdom of God come to the city of Nacogdoches as it is in heaven. We desire to saturate our city with families on mission* who gather and scatter to bring the Kingdom of God to our campus, city, and world. (see page 19 for more info on what a family on mission is) 3

4 What is a Family Covenant? a formal relationship between a Church and a Christian characterized by the church s affirmation and oversight of a Christian s discipleship and the Christian s submission to living out his or her discipleship in the care of the church. -Jonathan Leeman (Church Membership) Introduction The Mosaic Family Covenant is the way to be formally affiliated and aligned with Mosaic Church. At many churches, this is referred to as membership. We chose to use different language to help us communicate clearly our hopes for our people, and to avoid the misunderstandings that are associated with the word member for many people in our society. We are God s family, sons and daughters adopted by the blood of Jesus and filled with the Holy Spirit. When God brings us into his eternal family, we are not only sons and daughters, we are also brothers and sisters with all other believers. The Church, made up of all believers throughout history, is God s family. Ever since its inception, the Church universal has been arranged into smaller congregations called local churches. Though many of these local churches differ on matters of belief and practice all have believed that they are essential communities instituted by God the Father for His glory and our good. Our culture has been shaped by capitalism and individualism. Neither of these are bad in their own right, but one of the effects of these cultural values is that we as Americans have been groomed to think as consumers. Contemporary Western cultures are enamored with choice and committed primarily to preserving the freedom of an individual to withdraw, move on, reconsider and renegotiate when their needs, comforts or values are not being met. It is common for people to remain loyal to a brand until it no longer benefits them, faithful to spouses until it is uncomfortable and inconvenient, and loyal to employers until getting a better offer. 4

5 If Christians are not careful, even our churches will be nothing more than semisanctified microcosms of this culture. We will attend when we want, be accountable when we want, submit to authority when we want, give when we want and only to whom we want. Yet this is not who the church was created to be. The local church is more than a place, organization or business. The church is the glorious gathering of the redeemed, a sanctified and royal priesthood, the united household of God, the beautiful body and bride of Christ. It manifests the manifold wisdom of God for the display of His glory (Ephesians 3:10). Such an exalted picture of the church seems silly as long as we re content with superficial relationships and shallow connections. God calls us to a family where we BELONG, SERVE AND INVEST to one another and with one another. We chose to commit and not leave each other if and when things get difficult. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul draws on the imagery of a body as a metaphor for the local church. Far from commending self-sufficiency and independence, Paul upholds a radically countercultural vision of desperate interdependence marked by love, service, humility, sacrifice and sympathy. The Scriptures call us to love one another, outdo one another in showing honor, live in harmony with one another, instruct, greet, comfort, serve, bear the burdens of, forgive, encourage, always seek to do good to, exhort, stir up to love and good works, confess your sins to, pray for and show hospitality to one another. Believers may pursue these obligations to each other through many avenues, but the primary way we are to fulfill them is within this messy and beautiful reality called the local church. Formally aligning oneself with a local church is not about privilege or prestige. It is not some elevated level of access with secret insider benefits. It is also not a legal document for the leadership to control its members. Instead, joining a local church is a response to the call of discipleship that can only flourish in the context of a gospel-saturated family. It is an agreement to contribute to the good of the body rather than consume from it. It is a necessary formalization of that which already implicitly exists. It is an obligation to sacrificially seek the good of others in the body of Christ. 5

6 Covenant A covenant is generally defined as a written agreement or promise usually under seal between two or more parties especially for the performance of some action. When the Bible speaks of formal relationships inside the local church, it uses the concept of a covenant. Some covenants are between people (1 Sam.18:3, 20:16; 2 Sam. 5:3), while others are between God and man (Gen. 6:18, 9;16,15:18; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6-7). With some covenants, one party binds him or herself to fulfill the obligations of both sides. In others, the parties are reciprocally bound to adhere to the obligations. Though types of covenants vary, the concept saturates the biblical text. Therefore, it seems appropriate to apply the idea of a covenant to being a part of a local church. Covenants also include some type of visible representation. All cultures have symbols to signify comprehension and consent. Signs of those agreements in Scripture include cutting animals in two and walking between the pieces (Gen. 15), placing a hand under a thigh (2 Sam. 24), removing and exchanging a sandal (Ruth 4) or instituting and enjoying a ceremonial dinner (Matt. 26:17-29). While the symbol may change, the abiding call to covenant is clear. Christians commit themselves to each other in the context of the local church in countless ways. At Mosaic, the current process for becoming a part of the family involves participating in a class, completing a form which is renewed on a yearly bases, and meeting with a pastor or elder to affirm and welcome a person to the family. Far from mere formality, these expressions are important representations of the formal commitment that the Mosaic family members make. Family Covenant The Mosaic Family Covenant is birthed out of our love for the church body and its individual members whom we hope will experience the fullness of joy which is found in the presence of our God. The primary purpose of this covenant is to serve as a teaching document with three functions: To clarify the biblical expectations for both the elders of Mosaic and the individual family members of Mosaic body. To establish parameters for belief and practice of the Mosaic family. To provide a foundation and procedure for maintaining unity among our body. 6

7 The family covenant of Mosaic contains many conditions that we believe are the desire of God for all his children. For example, God desires all Christians, whether members of Mosaic or elsewhere to submit to Jesus and his teachings via the Scriptures, to pursue love and holiness, to steward resources, etc. This and others are part of the way of life that our loving heavenly Father desires for all of his children regardless of church affiliation. The language of the Family Covenant is focused on two relationships: the relationship of the elders to the corporate church body, as well as the relationship of individual members to one another. The covenant is first and foremost an agreement to pursue the way of life that God calls all of his children into. It also includes some conditions that are specific to Mosaic Church for the purpose of accomplishing what we believe God is calling us to for the good of our city and world. If at any time an individual family member feels as though the corporate church body is not remaining faithful to the requirements of the covenant, it is the responsibility of the individual member to lovingly and humbly express concerns to the leadership of the church. If the church elders are unwilling to change and pursue covenant faithfulness, then the member is freed from his or her membership obligations and encouraged to seek membership elsewhere given the church s disobedience. In addition, certain circumstances may provide sufficient and righteous grounds to transfer membership elsewhere. Likewise, should the pastors and elders observe or become aware of a family member not remaining faithful to the covenant, it is the responsibility of the leadership to lovingly and humbly express those concerns to the individual. If the individual is unwilling to change and pursue covenant faithfulness, the church must release the covenant until they are willing to change. 7

8 Family Covenant Details Family Meetings Periodically, Mosaic will call a family meeting. We anticipate these happening 2-4 times a year. These meetings, led by pastors and elders, will serve as an occasion to be intentional with information, decisions and vision important to the Mosaic family while also providing opportunities to celebrate victories in the life of our church. We ask that you will make every effort to attend these meetings. Family Covenant Renewal Once you become a Family Covenant Member, we will ask you to participate in our annual Family Covenant Renewal process each fall. This process gives each of us the opportunity to reconsider the weight and responsibility of being part of the family. It also provides the staff and leadership the occasion to be reminded of what God has asked of us as we lead and shepherd the flock of God among us. This process allows us to get an accurate assessment of how many family members we actually have and to maintain close contact. Family members are asked to give updated contact information, provide feedback, etc. These logistical details are essential to our desire to know and love the people the Lord has entrusted to us. We ask all members to complete this process and to take seriously the chance to be reminded of our roles and responsibilities as family members. We encourage you to set aside a period of time to not just check the requirement off a to-do list but rather to read and prayerfully consider the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany being a part of a local church. Affirmation Meeting Joining the family at Mosaic is a three-step process of class, preparation and affirmation. The process is not complete until you finish the class, read and complete the appropriate materials and complete an affirmation meeting. The affirmation meeting will involve a meeting between you, your spouse if applicable, and a pastor or elder of Mosaic. This will provide us an opportunity to personally interact with you and hear your individual story of the circumstances surrounding your conversion and what led you to Mosaic. It will 8

9 also allow you to ask further questions regarding membership. You will be asked to share the story of God s grace in your life during the affirmation meeting. Sharing your Testimony We want to help you think about all the Lord has done in your life and rejoice in the transformation of your heart by Jesus Christ. A testimony is a witness and proclamation of who God is, what He has done, as well as what we believe and how those beliefs changed us. The point is to glorify God, not make it all about us. We hope these questions aid you in thinking through how God revealed Himself to you and changed your life. LIFE BEFORE CHRIST 1. We all have different journeys to Jesus. Before we knew His saving grace, we desperately needed His saving grace. What did your life look like before knowing Christ? 2. Ephesians 2 says that prior to Christ: all humans are dead in their trespasses and sins, following the ways of the world and under the influence of satan (paraphrase) What internal sin and pain were you walking in before knowing Christ? CONVERSION 1. Though we lead different lives leading up to Christ, we all reach that point when we realize our need for salvation. What brought you to this moment? 2. What did God do in your life that led you to consider Christ? When did you begin sensing His call? 3. How have your beliefs changed? 4. What has God revealed to you about who He is? How has that changed you? LIFE WITH CHRIST 1. After salvation, the Holy Spirit begins the work of sanctification. He begins to mold us and chip away at our lives and hearts so that we might better imitate Christ. How have you seen fruit in your life and evidences of the Holy Spirit working in you? 2. What external changes have you seen? How has your heart changed? 3. What persistent difficulties are you having in your relationship with God or in your daily life? How can Mosaic assist you? 9

10 Conditions of the Family Covenant Elders to the Mosaic Family As shepherds and overseers of a local church, elders are entrusted with protecting, leading, equipping and caring for the corporate church body and her individual members. The following is a rather extensive overview of the requirements for elders as spelled out within the Scriptures. The elders covenant... to appoint elders and deacons (including staff members who serve in these of offices) according to the criteria assigned to them in the Scriptures (1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-4). to prayerfully seek God s will for our church community and steward her resources to the best of our ability based on our study of the Scriptures and following of the Spirit (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:1-4). to care for the church and seek her growth in grace, truth and love (Matt. 28:16-20; Eph. 4:15-16 Col. 1:28; James 5:14; 1 Pet. 5:1-4). to provide teaching and counsel from the whole of Scripture and from the Spirit of God(Acts 20:27-28; 1 Tim. 4:16; 2 Tim. 4:1-5; Titus 2:1). to equip the members of the church for the work of ministry (Eph. 4:11-16). to be on guard against false teachers and teachings (Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:28-31; 1 Tim. 1:3-7; 1 John 4:1). to lovingly exercise discipline when necessary, for the glory of God, the good of the one disciplined and the health of the church as a whole (Matt.18:15-20; 1 Cor. 5; Gal. 6:1; James 5:19-20). to set an example and join members in fulfilling the family covenant (Phil. 3:17; 1 Tim. 4:12; Titus 2:7-8; 1 Pet. 5:3). Mosaic Family Members to the Mosaic Family As those who have experienced the grace of a life changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we have been offered the opportunity to walk in this world with the exact same life, power, fruitfulness and freedom that Jesus did. The way of life the the New Testament teaches is not a demand of external conformity to rules but rather the offer of a different way of life. The Scriptures refer to this 10

11 reality as living by the Spirit. This document functions primarily as an accessible yet non-exhaustive explanation of what the Scriptures teach about the obedience that faith produces. I covenant... to submit to the authority of Jesus via the teaching of the Scriptures as the final arbiter on all issues (Ps. 119; 2 Tim. 3:14-17; 2 Pet. 1:19-21). to pursue a vibrant relationship with the Trinity through regular, prayer, fellowship, study of scripture and practice of spiritual disciplines (Luke 18:1; Acts 17:11; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; Eph. 5:1-21; 1 Thess. 5:12-22). to follow the commands and example of Jesus by participating in the ordinances prescribed to His Church: by being baptized after my conversion. by regularly remembering and celebrating the person and work of Christ through communion. to regularly participate: in Worship by attending weekly services in Community, by joining and participating in community group in Discipleship, seeking to be trained in discipleship and active in making disciples as God gives you opportunities. to invest and steward the resources God has given me, including time, talents, spiritual gifts and finances. This includes regular financial giving, service and participation in community that is sacrificial, cheerful and voluntary (Matt. 25:14-30; Rom. 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 8-9; 1 Pet. 4:10-11). by serving to meet the needs of the family. We ask all family members to find at least one specific place to serve. We also ask any parent who brings kids to the kid s ministry to serve at least once a month in the kid s ministry so that we share the load of the ministry and don t put the work on a few, who are not able to engage in worship due to serving too often. by God s grace through the power of the Holy Spirit, to walk in holiness in all areas of life as an act of worship to Jesus Christ (1 Pet.1:13-16, 4:1-3). Believers should strive to put certain attitudes and actions to death while stirring and stimulating love and good deeds through the Spirit. Below are a few examples of actions addressed in the Scriptures: 11

12 I will practice complete chastity unless married and, if married, complete fidelity within heterosexual and monogamous marriage. Complete chastity and fidelity means, among other things, that regardless of my marital status, I will pursue purity and abstain from sexually immoral practices such as adultery, premarital sex and pornography (Rom. 13:11-14; 1 Cor. 6:15-20, 10:8; Eph. 5:3; 1 Thess. 4:1-8; Heb. 13:4). I will seek to preserve the gift of marriage and agree to walk through the steps of marriage reconciliation at Mosaic Church before pursuing divorce from my spouse (Matt. 19:1-12; Mark 10:1-12; Luke 16:18; 1 Cor. 7:10-11; for the role of the church in the process of divorce, see Paul s concern for the resolution of legal matters within the assembly of the church in 1 Cor. 6). I will refrain from illegal drug use, drunkenness, gossip and other sinful behavior as the Bible dictates (Rom. 1:28-32, 13:13; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:18; James 3:3-18). I will take seriously the responsibility of Christian freedom. This pertains to pursuing freedom from sin, the world, and satan s influence on my mind and actions. This also includes limiting those freedoms if my actions could present a stumbling block to another (1 Cor. 8:1-13). to submit to the elders and other appointed leaders of the church and diligently strive for unity and peace within the church (Eph. 4:1-3; Heb. 13:17). to do the following should I leave the church for righteous reasons: (Examples of righteous grounds to transfer membership: A breaking of the covenant by the elders of the church, moving to a new city, getting married, Examples of unrighteous grounds to transfer membership: Leaving the church out of a spirit of consumerism, Leaving during a time of sin and rebellion, Leaving in a state of hurt or offense) to notify the appropriate elder or pastor. to seek another church with which I can carry out my biblical responsibilities as a believer. 12

13 Mosaic Family Values God has created humanity to be his family, engaged in his work to bring his glory and grace to all of creation. Mosaic Church is God s family on mission. As a family, we BELONG, SERVE and INVEST. We seek to invite others into the family to experience the love of Christ, to be healed, to be trained and equipped, and to be sent out to see the restoration of our campus, city and world. Belonging to a family means that we strive to live lives marked by our family traits : Humility If Jesus came to serve & lay down his life, we can t follow him without doing the same. Our Savior wasn t above washing feet, and neither are any of us. [3] Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. [4] Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. [5] Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, [6] who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped...(philippians 2:3-5) Honor Every person is made in God s Image, and so we treat them as such. We speak the truth in love. We talk to people, not about them. We limit our preferences and freedoms for the well-being of others. [10] Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:10 ESV) Holiness Our lives are to be altogether different from the World, because we are made in the Image of a Holy (altogether different) God. [15] but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, [16] since it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy. (1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV) 13

14 Harmony We are a diverse people unified by our love for Jesus. We are different by God s design, and our differences make us stronger and enable us to display the beauty and majesty of God together. [11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12] to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, [13] until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, [14] so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. [15] Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, [16] from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:11-16 ESV) Hard Work We are doing the most important work in the world and do it because we love it. Ministry isn t a job, it is what every believer was created for and is called to. [23] Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, [24] knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24 ESV) Humor God wants us to enjoy life, to laugh together & display joy to a sad and broken world. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, The Lord has done great things for them. The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad. (Psalm 126:2-3 ESV) 14

15 Ministry Strategy of Mosaic (What strategy allows us to accomplish our mission?) Worship Community Discipleship As followers of Jesus, we seek to live life the way that Jesus lived. We also seek to establish Jesus way of life as the rhythm of our church. The life of Jesus could be summarized into three primary dimensions: UP (Worship), IN (Discipleship) and OUT (Community/ Evangelism). We ask all of the family to be actively engaged in all three dimensions of the Christian life. WORSHIP Jesus regularly withdrew from the crowds and the busyness of life to be with his Father. His connection with His Father was the most important thing in his life. We seek to cultivate a culture of worship. We believe that humans exist to worship and glorify our creator through every avenue of life. Our worship environments at Mosaic are designed to invite God to speak into our lives through God s Word, God s People, and God s Spirit. COMMUNITY (Families on Mission) Jesus drew in crowds and taught them in word and in action about life. He allowed all kinds of people to hang around, so that they would get a taste of life in the family. Church is more than a building or an hour on Sunday. It is a family of Christ-followers who share life together and live out Christ s mission to go and make DISCIPLES. We encourage our people to move from the rows of a worship environment into a place where they are face-to-face with other believers. When we talk about families on mission, we are not talking just of biological families. We are talking about people 15

16 in all different situations and stages of life coming together to be a family to one another. Whether you are young or old; single, married, or widowed, God created you for community and we want you to be a part of a family at Mosaic. DISCIPLESHIP Jesus invited a few men into an intimate place of learning. They received more information, got an up close look at Jesus so that they could imitate him as he put these truths into practice, and were shown how they uniquely expressed the kingdom through their personality and gifts. A DISCIPLE is a LEARNER, a follower of Jesus Christ who is progressively growing deeper in his or her clarity of belief and consistency of practice. As a result, they begin to look more and more like Jesus (character/ inward fruit) and to do the things that Jesus did while he was on earth (competency/ outward fruit). We desire to help each person grow personally as a DISCIPLE of Jesus and to show them how God has uniquely gifted and positioned them to live on mission and make DISCIPLES. 16

17 Mosaic Core Beliefs In Essentials, Unity. In Non-Essentials, Liberty. In All Things, Love. These Are The Essential Beliefs To Which We Hold: We Believe in one God, Creator of all things, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and that these three are co-eternal and of equal dignity and power. We Believe in the deity of Jesus Christ; His miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit; His virgin birth; His sinless life; His substitutionary death on a cross; His bodily resurrection; His victorious ascension to the right hand of the Father; and His personal, imminent return. We Believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit indwelling all believers and thus enabling and empowering the life and ministry of the believer. We believe that God has created humanity in His image, that sin has marred that image, and that God is in the process of restoring humanity as his imagebearers through the life, death, resurrection, ascension of Christ. We Believe the Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins and that all who believe in Him are declared righteous because of His sacrificial death and are, therefore, in right relationship with God. We Believe in the bodily resurrection of everyone who has lived, the everlasting blessedness of those in right relationship with God and everlasting separation for those who have rejected union with God through his Son. We Believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and without mistakes as originally written. It is the complete revelation of His will for salvation and the only unfailing rule of faith and practice for the Christian life. 17

18 Word and Spirit Mosaic Doctrinal Distinctives John 4:23-24 [23] But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. [24] God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. Mosaic Church is wholly committed to the convergence of both the Word of God and the Spirit of God, not simply as a theological statement but as a way of life and ministry. Our aim in all that we do, whether in corporate worship, community group gatherings, discipleship, or missional outreach, is to serve in accordance with the Word of God through the power of the Spirit of God. Our belief is that the two were meant to be married, pursued together, and complementary to one another. There are two general fears that threaten to divide the church along these lines. Some are fearful that an emphasis on the Bible will quench the Spirit, and others fearful that openness to the supernatural and spiritual gifts will lure us away from God s Word into the land of sensationalism and subjectivity. We believe that the New Testament does not give us the option of choosing to elevate one or the other, and that choosing or elevating either one at the exclusion or expense of the other is a misrepresentation of what the essence of the Christian faith is about. We believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and without mistakes as originally written. It is the complete revelation of His will for salvation and the only unfailing rule of faith and practice for the Christian life. We are very serious about the written Word of God. We teach it and preach it and live under its authority, and gladly allow it to govern our lives, both individually and as a church body, according to its principles (Matthew 5:18; John 10:35; 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). We believe that the Spirit of God is the source of all spiritual life and that the ministry of the Spirit in signs and wonders continues to be as broad, tangible, and powerful among believers today as it was in the early church. We also believe that all the biblical gifts of the Spirit continue to be distributed by the Spirit today; that these gifts are divine provisions central to spiritual growth and effective ministry; and that these gifts are to be eagerly desired, faithfully developed, and lovingly exercised according to biblical guidelines (John 14:12; Acts 2:14-21; 4:29-30; Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11; 12:28-31; 14:1-33; Galatians 3:1-5) 18

19 Unity Through Diversity Ephesians 4:1-16 [1] I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, [2] with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, [3] eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism, [6] one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.[7] But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. [8] Therefore it says, When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men. [9] (In saying, He ascended, what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? [10] He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) [11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12] to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, [13] until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, [14] so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. [15] Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, [16] from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Mosaic Church believes that unless diverse people choose to humbly live life and work together, the church cannot display the fullness of Christ, and individuals cannot mature and grow as God intends us to. The Gospel writers display Jesus as the perfect exemplar of the five gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11, this is why Paul says Grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ s gift. The word apostle means sent one. Jesus is the ultimate, sent one, being sent from heaven to earth on a mission to redeem and restore all that sin has destroyed. The word prophet means one who speaks, and by implication means one who hears from God and then speaks. Jesus is the ultimate prophet, who hears directly and perfectly from God and speaks perfectly for him. The word evangelist means one who brings good news. Jesus is the ultimate evangelist, the one who came to announce the good news, literally the gospel, of God s victory and the good news of a Kingdom that would heal all that has been broken. 19

20 The word shepherd/ pastor describes one who cares for others with a tender heart. Jesus is the ultimate shepherd/ pastor, as he described himself as the good shepherd who knows his people and cares for his people perfectly. The word teacher means one who holds out truth. Jesus is the ultimate teacher, who knew truth completely and taught with a power and authority that caused the crowds to listen in awe. Not only is Jesus the perfection of all of these roles, but according to verses 7-11, when Jesus ascended to heaven following his resurrection, he gave these gifts out to the church. This was to ensure that in his bodily absence his people, the church, might fully display his presence and power on the earth. This means that the church contains the fullness of Jesus among its diversely created members. We believe that Jesus has gifted the church with apostles. These are people who are wired as sent ones. They live and see the world through the lens of the mission of God and constantly push the church out. We believe that Jesus has gifted the church with prophets. These are people who are wired to be especially sensitive to the voice of God. They see the world through the lens of hearing God and desire for others to hear from God as they do. We believe that Jesus has gifted the church with evangelists. These are people who are wired to go out and win others over. They see the world through the lens of relationships, particularly engaging those who are far from God and sharing life and faith with them. We believe that Jesus has gifted the church with shepherds/ pastors. These are people who are wired to quickly discern the needs and feelings of the people around them. They see the lens through the lens of people s needs, and want people to feel loved and cared for. We believe that Jesus has gifted the church with teachers. These are people who are wired to study, learn, and then teach the truth of God. These people see the world through the lens of knowing and helping others know truth that will help them understand and live life. Again, we believe that unless diverse people choose to humbly live life and work together, the church cannot display the fullness of Christ, and individuals cannot mature and grow as God intends us to. This is why Paul emphasized unity, humility and bearing with one another in verses 1-6. It s not easy for differently gifted individuals to stay together. But unless we do, we cannot be the church that God has designed us to be, and we cannot spiritually mature as individuals the way that God desires for us to mature. 20

21 Leadership Structure of Mosaic An Overview of Church Leadership Models Church models and leadership structures can be confusing. Ed Stetzer summarizes some of the options and differences in his book, Planting Missional Churches. Here are several popular options sincere people have applied based on their best understanding of the Scriptures and organizations: Elders- The pure elder paradigm provides a true plurality for governance with no chief leader. It s practiced among Brethren denominations and in some Bible churches. Pastors and Elders- This approach uses a plurality of leaders, including the pastor, who serves as an elder and in first among equals. Other elders may be laypersons or paid vocational (full-time) staff. Board and Pastor- This form acknowledges the pastor as an employee of the board, performing ministry at their direction. Pastor- Churches that follow this system follow only the pastor with no elders. The pastor alone is the decision maker of the church, sharing authority with no one except, typically, the entire church under a congregational form of government. Mosaic Leadership Structure Mosaic believes that the Pastors and Elders model listed above is the model that best reflects the teaching of Scripture. It is our conviction that the Bible is clear concerning leadership within the church, specifically concerning 4 levels of leadership: 1. A first among equals, who is given authority to lead and set the vision of the church. 2. A team of elders and pastors who oversee ministry and shepherd together in covenant relationship with one another. 3. A team of deacons and ministers who perform and meet the practical needs of our people. 4. A covenant membership process that clearly defines the parameters of being a part of the body of Mosaic Church. Each part must clearly know it s role and it s relationship to the others. Each must learn to be bold and yet humble in fulfilling their role to the body, so that the church can clearly demonstrate Christ in our community. CHAIRMAN OF THE ELDER TEAM The Bible describes a structure in which a group of men who were led by a "first among equals. Although the church was led and governed by a plurality of men, there were men who were given specific authority to set the vision and direction of the church. The Lead Pastor of Vision serves as the first among equals, providing point leadership, guidance, direction, and oversight of Mosaic Church, including the elder board. 21

22 ELDERS/ PASTORS Elders at Mosaic are permanently appointed men who oversee and minister to the people of Mosaic along with the pastoral staff. They are appointed under the discretion of the lead pastors and elder team. Elders are appointed in accordance to their: Character (according to the standards given in Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7) Competence Track record demonstrating ministry giftedness Theological Competence/ Completion of Ordination Process Chemistry with Elder Team Commitment to the mission and vision of Mosaic Church Elders primary roles are: Setting and maintaining the vision, mission, and culture of Mosaic. Leading Mosaic Church in prayer. Shepherding the Covenant Members of Mosaic. Along with the Staff, each elder will be active in the membership process, in both welcoming and interviewing prospective members, in renewing covenant membership, and in church discipline cases. Mosaic Elders serve a three-year term upon appointment. At the end of three years, their term will be reviewed. The individual and board will decide whether they should continue as an elder or rotate off for an undetermined period. All elders are given a sabbatical every 7 years or as needed upon the approval of the board. Any elder can be removed by the rest of the board should character, competency, or chemistry issues arise. PASTORS/ DEACONS/ MINISTERS Pastors are the paid, ordained staff at Mosaic. Ordination is given to potential pastors at the discretion of the elder board after they complete an approved training program/ degree and pass an ordination exam. Deacons are non-paid, permanently appointed men and women who serve and meet the ministry needs of Mosaic and are qualified based on the qualifications given (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Each deacon serves on a team that is well-defined and organized under the authority of the chairman. Deacons are selected and approved by the chairman and elder board. The deacon team is lead by the deacon chairman, who is an staff member who serves to oversee the deacon meetings, systems and teams in a permanent role. This person s main task is to oversee the deacons and make sure that they are functioning well and cohesively. Ministers/ Directors are paid, non-ordained staff at Mosaic who serve as ministers. These will be leading teams as deacons and included in monthly meetings. 22

23 The Leadership of Mosaic: Staff Team Kyle Easley- Lead Pastor, Teaching & Vision Kyle has been in Nacogdoches for 10 years and serves at Mosaic by teaching and overseeing vision, direction, & ministry leadership. Terrell Eggers-Lead Pastor, Teaching & Discipleship Terrell has been in Nacogdoches for 10 years and serves at Mosaic by teaching and overseeing discipleship & counseling. Joni Hagler- Director of Administration Joni has been in Nacogdoches for 22 years and serves at Mosaic by overseeing the administrative functions of the church. Emily Evans- Children s Ministry Director Emily has been in Nacogdoches all of her life and serves at Mosaic by overseeing ministry to the children of Mosaic, from birth-5th grade. Zach Olsen- Kid s Groups Minister Zach grew up in California and met many of the staff members of Mosaic while serving at San Francisco City Impact. Zach moved to Texas in 2016, where he met his wife, Amy. Zach and Amy moved to Nacogdoches to be a part of Mosaic in August of Zach serves the kids of Mosaic Church. Amy Olsen- Kid s Church Minister Amy grew up in Nacogdoches and moved back to be a part of Mosaic with her husband Zach in August Amy serves the kids of Mosaic Church. 23

24 Jamal Peden- Youth Pastor Jamal has been in Nacogdoches for 7 years and serves at Mosaic by overseeing ministry to the students of Mosaic, from 6th-12th grade. John Jackson- Worship Pastor John has been in Nacogdoches for 7 years and serves at Mosaic by leading worship and overseeing shepherding of the covenant members of Mosaic. Josh Taylor- Worship Pastor Josh has been in Nacogdoches for 6 years and serves at Mosaic by leading worship and overseeing shepherding of the covenant members of Mosaic. Joe Dodson- Missions & Serve Team Pastor Joe has been in Nacogdoches all of his life and serves at Mosaic by leading our serve teams, local and global missions efforts, and overseeing shepherding of the covenant members of Mosaic. Emily Dodson- Communications Director Emily has been in Nacogdoches most of her life and serves at Mosaic by overseeing all of our communications and creative content. 24

25 Elder Team Kyle Easley Kyle has been married to Katie for 15 years, and they have 3 children: Anna, Caleb and Jake. Kyle serves as the Lead Pastor of Teaching and Vision for Mosaic Church. Terrell Eggers Terrell has been married to Lauren for 5 years, and they have 3 children: Marshall, Sammy, and Abigail. Terrell serves as the Lead Pastor of Teaching and Discipleship for Mosaic Church. Paul Hagler Paul has been married to Joni for 30 years. They have two married, adult sons; Skylar and Corey and Tucker and Breanna. Paul and Joni are both SFA alumni. Paul is a pharmaceutical representative with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. 25

26 Josh Evans Josh has been married to his wife Emily for 10 years, and they have a son named Whit. Josh loves to equip and encourage the people of our community to see the heart of our Father. Josh is employed by Texas Farm Products. Garth Hinze Garth has been married to Holly for 12 years, and they have a son named Luke. Garth is the owner and manager of M & S Pharmacy. 26

27 #INNACASITISINHEAVEN 27