3 Views on the Structure of Pastors, Assistant Pastors, and Deacons in the Local Church

(All three of these structures assume that "elder," "bishop," and "pastor" are all interchangable titles, and that pastors are paid by the church.) 

Structure #1 
In the first example, there is somewhat of a plurality of pastors with the "senior pastor" being the main leader.  These "pastors" work closely together and are typically all paid by the church body.  Deacons are not paid, but share in some of the main decision making of the church and are typically more actively involved in the support of the ministries and upkeep of the church.

Structure #2
In the second example, there is one pastor, and he works very closely with his "assistants" who actually fulfill what would be the Biblical role of a "deacon" in teaching, soul-winning, and carrying out various ministries in the church.  In this case, the "deacons" are usually provided for financially by the church body.

Structure #3
In the third example, there is one pastor who serves similarly to a CEO of a corporation.  He typically hires his assistant pastors who would be more like managers or "vice presidents" of a corporation.  Typically, the assistant pastor(s) would be brought on staff with some sort of agreement of financial compensation.  Deacons are laymen of the church who typically share in the decision making and support of the ministries and upkeep of the church.

Don't forget to take the survey above.  That will really help me with some upcoming articles I am preparing.  Thanks!

God bless you, and may your passion for ministry grow as you addict yourself to it (1 Corinthians 16:15)
RR