How should the church be governed? It's one of the most asked questions from new members, and Pastor Nate Brown and Pastor Daniel Hayworth are tackling it head-on in this compelling new mini-series.

Starting with the apostolic era (30-100 AD), they reveal how Christ designed church leadership and why every single apostle except John was martyred for building His church. While modern Christians debate governance structures, the early church leaders were being crucified upside down, flayed alive, and sawed in half for their faith.

This episode explores the biblical foundation found in Ephesians 4:11-12, where Christ gives apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to equip God's people for ministry. You'll discover why Jesus told the disciples "it's better if I leave" and how the Holy Spirit launched the most effective leadership movement in history.

Pastor Daniel shares insights from his recent article writing that's drawn both pushback and genuine seekers, while Pastor Nate walks through each apostle's ministry region and ultimate martyrdom. From Peter's upside-down crucifixion to Bartholomew being flayed alive in Armenia, these weren't power-hungry leaders—they were servants who paid the ultimate price.

✅ How Christ designed church leadership through the four-fold ministry

✅ Why the apostolic era required both relational connection and Spirit-led authority

✅ Biblical principles for staff-led, membership-run church structure

✅ The generational cost of handing down biblical truth faithfully

✅ How modern church governance should honor apostolic sacrifice

Scripture Study:

📖 Ephesians 4:11-12 – Christ's gifts to equip and train the church

📖 Acts 15:6 – Apostles and elders meeting together to resolve issues

📖 Acts 6:1-7 – Choosing seven deacons to serve the growing church

📖 Matthew 16:18 – "On this rock I will build my church"

This is part one of a 2-3 episode series tracing church governance from the apostolic era through today. Next episode covers the post-apostolic/ante-Nicene period (100-313 AD).

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