Prominent Acts 29 Church Seeks Former Members’ Input in Independent Investigation of Pastoral Misconduct and Culture Issues.

Vintage Church, a prominent multi-site congregation in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, is conducting an independent investigation into its culture and organizational structure following the departure of its founding senior pastor, Tyler Jones. Church leaders have requested current and former members to participate in a survey, emphasizing its importance for the congregation’s future direction.

In February, the church terminated Jones, who co-founded Vintage in 2002 and was instrumental in training church planters for the global Acts 29 network. The church disclosed that Jones acknowledged an extramarital relationship when confronted, though he did not confess. In response, Vintage hired Guidepost Solutions to investigate potential cultural and structural issues within the church.

During a meeting on June 3, Darrell Martin, the director of people and organizational development, highlighted the survey’s significance, urging participants to be honest in their responses. The survey includes questions about prior knowledge or concerns regarding Jones’ leadership and conduct, as well as inquiries into the treatment of women at the church. Vintage, like other Acts 29 congregations, adheres to the belief that men and women have distinct roles, with women being restricted from certain leadership positions.

The survey asks participants if female staff, members, and volunteers feel supported, valued, heard, and safe at Vintage. It also inquires about any observed or experienced issues related to gender. This investigation follows a previous incident in 2012 when executive pastor Nate Williams resigned due to immoral sexual behavior and mistreatment of female employees. At that time, Vintage was sometimes referred to as “Mars Hills East,” reflecting its connection to the Seattle congregation, which later faced its own scandal.

The fallout from the Mars Hill scandal has prompted evangelicals nationwide to reflect on the theological and cultural dynamics within their communities. As Vintage Church navigates its own challenges, it seeks to address past failures and foster a culture of accountability and integrity, aligning with the biblical call for justice and care for the vulnerable, as reflected in Micah 6:8 and Proverbs 11:1.

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