Structure

We believe the structure of the church should not be determined by culture, business practices,
or even denominational traditions.  The nature of the church determines its structure.

1.  The church is a FELLOWSHIP
A top priority in a fellowship is HARMONY and UNITY. 
Ephesians 4:3  "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." 

Any atitude that causes disunity is sin. 

A good structure PROMOTES UNITY and DOWNPLAYS DIFFERENCES.  Voting tends to
divide.  At Living Way, we only vote on:  Annual Budget, Legal Trustees, Purchase of Land
or Buildings, Calling the Senior Pastor, and Changes in Chruch Constitution.
 

2.  The church is a FAMILY
1 Peter 3:8  "You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward ecch other,
loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds."
So, we operate on the basis of RELATIONSHIPS, NOT RULES.

3.  The church is a BODY
1 Corinthians 12:27  "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it."
Our church is a BODY, NOT A BUSINESS.  We are an ORGANISM, NOT AN ORGANIZATION. 
In an organization, MAINTENANCE is the focus; in an organism, MINISTRY is the focus.
 

4.  The church is a FLOCK
John 21:17  "The third time Jesus said to him, Simon...do you love me?  Peter was hurt
because Jesus asked him the third time.  He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know
that I love you.'  Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
The pastor's duty is to lead, feed, and equip the flock to carry out the full ministry of the church.

Values

1.  We value the application of Scripture

2.  We value people's giftedness.  Every Christian is a minister.

3.  We value informality.

4.  We value people's differences.

5.  We value freedom and flexibility.

6.  We value humor.

7.  We value innovation.

8.  We value growth.

9.  We value commitment.

10.  We value every member and visitor at Living Way.

11.  We value prayer.

12.  We value the Biblical principle of giving.