Southlands is led by a team of Pastor-Elders. These are men who have been gifted, called, recognized and ordained to provide leadership to Southlands in all spheres. The term "elder" should be differentiated from "elder board."

It is our biblical conviction that the highest form of human government in a church is the team of elders.
The Bible uses 3 words interchangeably to refer to function of the one and same person:

  • "Presbuteros" - Elder (executes God's justice and government and administrates the affairs of the church).
  • "Episcopos" - Overseer or bishop (oversees, a guardian, gatekeeper or watchman).
  • "Poimain" - Shepherd or pastor (shepherd the flock, nurture and care for the flock, feed the flock).

    • Elders are men who oversee every aspect of church life, are mutually accountable and are led by a visionary or lead elder. See Acts 20:17-28; Titus 1:5,7; 1 Pet. 2:25; 1 Pet. 5:1,2.

    This team is further accountable by willingly and relationally remaining connected with men that have a proven apostolic (overseeing) gift to the body of Christ. Some of these men are part of New Covenant Ministries International (NCMI).