Leadership
We believe that the Bible speaks clearly about the leadership and governance of the church. We desire to follow Scripture’s pattern and not the traditions of men.
As our doctrinal statement says, we teach that Christ has graciously given to his church two offices for its leadership: Elders and Deacons. We teach Christ has given the church elders (who are also called pastors or overseers/bishops) as undershepherds and stewards to oversee the flock of God between his comings. God calls only qualified, gifted men to be elders. Elders are to pray for the flock, humbly lead them through teaching and example, and shepherd them by exercising oversight. The congregation is to willingly follow and submit to the elders as those for whom the elders must give account. We teach that Christ has given the church deacons to assist the elders in the tangible needs of the church, protecting and promoting the elders’ primary ministries of prayer and the teaching of the word.
As a church plant, we pray that the Lord would raise up godly elders and deacons among us. We anticipate installing them as he gives them to his church (Eph. 4:11).
Justin Feland
Staff Pastor
Justin was born and raised south of the Twin Cities. He completed an undergraduate degree in Biblical & Theological Studies from Bethel University in 2014. He earned his Master of Divinity from The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles, CA in 2018 and his Master of Theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, MI in 2023. Justin is married to Suzanne and they have three children: Melody, Caleb and Micah. Justin has served as a staff pastor of Shepherd Bible Church since it’s beginning in June, 2025. He enjoys reading, theological conversation, BBQ, and family time.
Rod grew up in Southwest Washington state as one of twelve children. After earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in Electrical Engineering from Southern Illinois University, Rod moved to the Twin Cities in 1997 to work for Seagate. He presently works for Northrop Grumman. He currently attends Central Baptist Seminary in Plymouth, MN and intends to graduate with a Master of Arts in Theology in May 2026. Rod is married to Debbie and, although they were not blessed with children of their own, they have cherished spending time with nieces, nephews, and other’s children. Rod has served as a lay pastor since October, 2025. Rod enjoys photography, studying theology, and happy times sharing the Lord’s blessings with others around the dinner table.
Lay Pastor