Many churches affirm the biblical offices of elder and deacon but struggle to see them function with clarity and joy. Elders may feel stretched thin, uncertain where their responsibility ends, or burdened with tasks that distract from shepherding. Deacons may feel underutilized, reduced to task managers, or unclear about how their service fits into the church’s spiritual wellbeing.
This cohort is designed to help elders and deacons recover the biblical purpose and partnership of these two offices. Over six 90-minute sessions, we will explore what Scripture teaches about elders and deacons, how their distinct callings serve the same gospel mission, and how healthy churches cultivate trust and collaboration among those who serve in these roles. Each session will combine biblical teaching, pastoral wisdom, and practical guidance aimed at strengthening church leadership structures and fostering long-term church health.
Those who sign up for this cohort will receive free copies of:
- Church Elders: How to Shepherd God’s People Like Jesus by Jeramie Rinne
- Deacons: How They Serve and Strengthen the Church by Matt Smethurst
Are you on a church staff or considering this cohort as a group at a church? If so, check out this brief PDF with three ideas of how to use this cohort as a group. It also has instructions for deep discounts, provided through the support of generous donors. We hope these online learning cohorts will bless the church.
As a result, we never want finances to hinder someone from participating. If you want to participate in this cohort and have a need, please send us an email (cohorts@thegospelcoalition.org) and tell us more about your circumstances.
* We are unable to offer refunds for any cohorts
* Registration WITH books closes on May 13 and LATE Registration WITHOUT books closes on May 19.
* All sessions will be recorded and available for streaming or download at your leisure in perpetuity and so if you can’t make it live or even for months the material is still readily available for you
* NOTE: we are unable to ship to those outside the USA but please use the coupon code “BOOKS15” for 15% off as our courtesy to international participants. You may also use coupon code “BOOKS15” if you DO NOT WANT the books for the cohort.
* If you have any questions pertaining to signing up for your cohort, group rates, elder/preaching team rates, or church rates email cohorts@thegospelcoalition.org.