Elder | Tyler van der Hoeven

Gospel Hope Church is an Elder-led church. In the New Testament we find three titles used for the leaders of the local church: Elders, Overseers, and Pastors (or, Shepherds). The Scriptures teach that the church is to be led by a plurality, a team, of elders/overseers/pastors whom the Lord has raised up to shepherd the flock of God under the authority of the Lord Jesus. This leadership must come with input and accountability from the congregation.  

Tyler was born and raised around Lexington Kentucky as one of 10 siblings. He was saved at a young age and thanks to the faithful parenting and diligent discipline of his parents Tyler formed an early love for the church, missions and the work of God in the world. From farmhand, to photographer to software engineer Tyler’s career path has taken many turns, including a year of remote area missions training where he met his wife Debra. Tyler and Debra have two kids: Erik and Rylee (and one on the way!). Tyler enjoys his work, playing games, discussing theology with friends, disc golf and freshly AreoPressed coffee. He has a particular affinity towards teaching, missions, traveling and sweets. One of his favorite verses is Ezekiel 18:32 “For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies,” declares the Lord God. “Therefore , repent and live.”