God is the leader of the house church. He has put his Holy Spirit in each person who has trusted Christ as Savior. When we come together, the Holy Spirit is working among and through us. We act in humility toward one another, and look to God as the one leading us by consensus and influence. Each person who is yielded to the Holy Spirit can be used by God to bring something to the group, as we share our gifts and are open to each other. House churches often have no paid pastor or designated human leader who controls the group. But there is definitely a place for leaders and for people who have a positive influence. Scripture acknowledges that there are some believers who are more mature in their faith (elders), who are called to help and care for those who are newer in their faith journey. Being an elder is marked by humble, wise, gracious influence in other’s lives, protecting the healthy dynamics of the group, and building up the spiritual understanding of the truths of the Christian faith. Being an elder is not a office or role. It’s a gifting and a way of serving the body of Christ.
House church can make space for greater interaction with each other and typically encourages “every member participation”. This means that each person has the freedom to contribute during house church meetings. In the New Testament, 1 Corinthians 14:26 says “When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.” 1 Peter 4:10 says “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” We can learn from each other and we can share what God has given us. Each member is encouraged to ask God what he or she can bring to the meeting, and to be sensitive during the meeting to the Holy Spirit’s promptings about what they should contribute. Many house churches seek to create an environment in which everyone’s contributions are valued, and the full variety of spiritual gifts are exercised.