Every church should have some form of church government. Often the specifics are established in the by-laws when the church was first formed. Check the by-laws to see if this has been done. Of course, there is a way to legally change this if the church desires to do so.

Normally a board is required by most banks, lenders, etc. before doing business or loaning money to a church. A board also is a good means to have some type of accountability for the pastor and other leaders of the church. This may not have been as big an issue in years gone by but, due to federal regulations and audits it is not a good idea for a pastor to fly solo on church business matters.

The function of the church board is to represent the people to the pastor, deal with certain financial matters of the church, and advise the pastor. It is not a good idea for the pastor to be the total control, and to be the only one privy to the business matters of the church. The best from of government probably depends on the preferences of the church and pastor and the purpose of the board.

Some churches have “deacon board”, others have “trustee board”, and some even have both. The duties of these boards has usually been predefined and established by the church members and leaders.

Traditionally the DEACON BOARD is spiritual in nature. In that, they may advice the pastor on spiritual matters that pertain to the church. Some use 1 Timothy 3:10-13 as a format of service for the deacon. There is some argument that a deacon, in 1 Timothy 3, refers to the pastor; and that is up to your interpretation.

Some churches are also represented by a TRUSTEE BOARD. This board normally deals with the business matters of the church and represents the churches interest to the pastor and banks etc.

You must determine what you desire a church board to be responsible for.

This above is very simple and there are many and varied views of the role and duty of church boards, but this serves as a broad guideline.