The church had its beginning in Jerusalem during the first Pentecost after Jesus' ascension in 33 AD (Acts 2).  This church consists of local congregations (Galatians 1:2; Revelation 1:11) and is composed of the saved, for only the saved are added to it by the Lord (Acts 2:47).  This church has no earthly headquarters governing over multiple congregations because the Bible declares that Jesus Himself is the head over the church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18).  This is the case because Jesus foretold that He would build His church (Matthew 16:18).  He also purchased the church with His own blood which was shed during His crucifixion (Acts 20:28).

However, scripture informs us that a plurality of elders were appointed in every congregation (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5).  Their authority is limited to only the local congregation and to judgments that relate to carrying out Jesus' commands for His church.  They have no authority to add, delete, or modify any of Jesus' commands for His church.  This local form of leadership makes each congregation autonomous (self-governed).  The only tie which binds the many congregations together is a common allegiance to Christ & the Bible.  Elders are also referred to in the New Testament as pastors, shepherds, rulers, bishops, and overseers.  Each of these terms describe various areas of their responsibility.  The biblical qualifications to be an elder are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 & Titus 1:5-9.

Deacons are appointed as servants of the church and only have authority in works of the congregation as determined & delegated by the elders.  The biblical qualifications to be a deacon are found in 1 Timothy 3:8-13.

The preacher is simply an evangelist, minister, or teacher for the local congregation (2 Timothy 1:11; 2 Timothy 4:5; 1 Corinthians 3:5).  Please note that according to scripture the office of preacher is not the same as that of pastor (elder).