PASTORS: a Biblical Profile

THE ROLE OF THE PASTOR A Biblical Study of His Titles and Responsibilities by Dr. Ron Sheveland

Synopsis: Pastors have one office with three titles: Elder, Pastor and Overseer. Each of these designations describes different dimensions of their ministry. The purpose of this paper is to explain this more thoroughly how he should wear these three ministry hats.

They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith…Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. (Acts 14:21- 23) From the very genesis of God’s mission of multiplying disciples and churches, a key priority was the role of elders. These church leaders were critical to the vitality of the church. And that is still true today; a church’s health and fruitfulness will seldom rise above the level displayed by its leaders. That is why it is so important to study Scripture and discover what an elder should be and do. As it will be demonstrated, the office of pastor, elder and overseer is synonymous in Scripture. Many churches have some that they call “pastors” and others they call “elders.” The New Testament makes no distinction. But it does demonstrate that among the elders there were differing responsibilities with some leaders getting paid while others served without remuneration (1 Timothy 5:17-18). While this was due to the roles they played, it may have also had to do with the amount of time that they were able to volunteer. Since that is still the case, this paper will relate to both the individuals serving on an elder board and the pastors that may be full-time staff members.

In the book, The Church In God's Program, author Robert L. Saucy states:

The New Testament refers to two permanent officers in the local church. The first is that of the bishop, elder or pastor which.. all refer to the same office. Besides this office, which deals primarily with the governmental ‘oversight’ of the church, there is the office of deacon, which concerns the ordered "service" of the church. There is no evidence that either of these offices was ever held apart from a local church, nor did their sphere of authority extend beyond the assembly of which they were members and officers.1

Where is the Scriptural evidence that shows that the titles overseer (bishop), elder, and pastor (shepherd) are different names for the same position? The following passages demonstrate the interchangeability of the terms.

1 In Acts 20:17; Paul calls for the "elders" to meet him. Then in verse 28, he gives them this instruction: "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood." Referring to this passage, Millard J. Erickson says, "the use of all three terms in connection with the same group indicates equivalency."2 In I Peter 5:1-2, Peter states, "To the elders among you... Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers..." Their example is Jesus Christ, the "Chief Shepherd" (5:3)... "the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (2:25). In Titus 1:5, 7, the terms elder and overseer are used of the same office. The same is true of I Tim. 3:1-7, 3:4, 5:17. These passages have demonstrated that there is one office that is referred to with three different titles. This doesn't make them synonyms. They designate various aspects of the same position. As an elder, one models spiritual maturity. As a pastor, he shepherds the flock. And as an overseer, he provides leadership. While no one individual can excel equally in each of these dimensions, an imbalance occurs if any of them are neglected. The office is like a three-legged stool. For this reason, God's servant should strive to grow as an elder, pastor and overseer. While these three distinctions are portrayed in Scripture, it is impossible to neatly place them in separate boxes. They overlap and are mutually dependent upon each other.

THE ELDER -- Serving As a Model

Greek scholar W. E. Vine states that the "term 'elder' indicates the mature spiritual experience and understanding of those so described."3 Due to this spiritual maturity, the elder has gained the wisdom needed for the task and the integrity that is needed to serve as a good example (I Pet. 5:3). Often the word "elder" is associated with one who is older chronologically. This may be normative because Christians should be growing spiritually as they age chronologically. But I Timothy 4:12 shows that even a young pastor can wear the title if he is a positive role model. "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." Scripture talks far more about what a pastor should be than what he should do. If a leader lacks Christ-like character he will lack blessing from God and credibility with people. Although it is the Holy Spirit who actually chooses overseers (Acts 20:28), He shows His choice through the body. They are to use Scriptural qualifications to make their pastoral selection. While no one can perfectly measure up to each of these ideals, they should characterize a man chosen to fill this office. It also stands to reason that if the body no longer perceives that an elder possesses these qualities, he should be rebuked. If there is no repentance and reformation, he should be dismissed. I Tim 5:19-20 gives these guidelines: "Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning." Frequently pastors are evaluated on the basis of characteristics other than those listed in the Bible. Subjective issues like their style of preaching, their particular personality traits, etc., are often emphasized rather than God’s standards. We must accept the individuality of pastors and not try to mold them into our own expectations.

2 The first set of godly character traits is listed in I Timothy 3:1-7. A second set of pastoral qualifications is listed in Titus 1:6-9. You will notice how these two lists overlap. These qualities can be used for evaluative purposes. A church can use them to select and strengthen pastors. A pastor can compare them with his own life to see if he is constantly growing more mature.

"above reproach" (I Tim. 3:2)

The phrase describes one whose life doesn’t provide the basis for just charges or censure. While no one is perfect, an elder shouldn’t have the glaring moral weaknesses in his life that make him and his church open to valid criticism.

"the husband of but one wife" (I Tim. 3:2)

A “one woman” or “one wife” man should be loyal and true in body and heart to his wife. His devotion should be whole and pure. God expects leaders to model faithful, monogamous marriages.

"temperate" (I Tim. 3:2)

The leader who is “temperate” displays a clear, sensible judgment that allows him to be self- possessed and well balanced. With a properly regulated mind, he isn’t given to excess in the various dimensions of his life. He is neither given to workaholism or laziness. His moderation allows him to properly juggle such competing demands as work and leisure, study and people contacts, church members and family members, etc.

"self-controlled" (I Tim. 3:2)

The pastor is to be in control of his life, emotions and behavior. He should not be pushed around by his impulses nor lose his composure easily. His inner and outer life is held in proper order.

"respectable" (I Tim. 3:2)

The elder should have the kind of dignity that allows a church to view him with respect. His good behavior should evoke esteem from those who are impressed with his moral and spiritual character.

"hospitable" (I Tim. 3:2)

This term literally means one who “loves strangers” or is “fond of guests.” In New Testament times, when the local inns were often little more than pagan houses of prostitution, hospitality was a gracious gift to traveling Christians. Pastors should be concerned about the welfare of others – even strangers.

"able to teach" (I Tim. 3:2)

3 Every pastor should be able to understand, assimilate, and communicate Biblical truths. While it is true that some elders have greater responsibility in this area than others (I Tim. 5:17), preaching and teaching is so important that it must be conducted with proficiency.

"not given to drunkenness" (I Tim. 3:3)

The Bible has much to say about the potential dangers associated with strong drink (e.g., Prov. 20:1; 23:30-35; 31:4-5; Isa. 5:11, 22; Hosea 4:11; I Cor. 5:11; Gal. 5:21; Eph 5:18; I Pet. 4:3). It cannot only damage lives and families; it can also destroy the credibility of a Christian leader. The literal rendering of the Greek means that a pastor should not be “staying near wine.” While this passage cannot be used to prohibit drinking, it does imply that any use or abuse of alcohol that damages a man’s testimony or work for God should be avoided. By application, it would stand to reason that any addiction could hurt an elder’s credibility.

"not violent but gentle" (I Tim. 3:3)

“Strikers” (KJV) hurt people with their actions and words. Instead of being combative and harsh, pastors should be careful and soft in their dealings with others. Even rebukes are to be given “gently” (Gal. 6:1).

"not quarrelsome" (I Tim. 3:3)

Rather than have an argumentative personality that seems drawn toward contentious disputes, an overseer is to be marked by a sweet reasonableness. He is a peace-maker, not a trouble-maker. That doesn’t mean that he doesn’t stand up for his convictions. But it is possible to be persuasive without being pushy, to be motivational without being manipulative, and to disagree without being disagreeable.

"not a lover of money" (I Tim. 3:3)

A pastor should not be covetous or materialistic. Seeking first the kingdom of God (Matt. 6:33), his craving should be for spiritual riches instead of earthly riches. While pastors should expect appropriate financial remuneration for their service (I Tim. 5:17), they should not be “greedy for money” (I Pet. 5:2).

"must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect" (I Tim. 3:4)

If a pastor can’t manage his family well, he isn’t qualified to manage the family of God. John K. Hutcheson, Sr. states, “In the divine scheme of relationships, the God of Heaven intended for the pastor's first ministry to be his family, not the church. The pastor is a family man, as evidenced by the qualifications laid out in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1. His family either qualifies or disqualifies him from his calling to be one who models Truth to the Lord's people. If being a pastor involved no more than telling people what to do, any gifted orator or expositor could

4 handle that. However, the Lord of the Church expects pastors to "flesh out" the Truth in their family lives by being human analogues of Himself, the loving, nurturing Bridegroom.”4

A parent’s testimony, usefulness, and qualification for the office of pastor can be called into question by the disobedience and disrespect of his children. As the head of his home, he should provide spiritually, financially, and emotionally for those in his family. Even the best home will experience tension and times of rebellion, but like the wise father in the parable of the prodigal son, there can be good management of problem situations.

"not a recent convert" (I Tim. 3:6)

An elder must not be a new Christian (literally, “not one newly planted”). It would be a dangerous position for a recent convert. The highly visible role of a pastor results in the overseer getting a lot of attention. This makes it easy to get puffed up with pride and to believe in one’s own self- importance. And pride comes before a fall. A new convert also lacks the knowledge and experience to properly lead a flock.

"a good reputation with outsiders" (I Tim. 3:7)

Even in the secular world, one aspiring to be a pastor should exhibit a lifestyle that reflects ethical, biblical, and spiritual morality. Does he pay his bills? Does he get along with his neighbors? It is important that a church leader conducts his life in such a way that people in the community cannot use the charge of hypocrisy. At stake are the testimony of the church and the cause of evangelism.

"a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient" (Titus 1:6)

One is not qualified to be a leader in the church unless he is a leader in his home. When a person’s faith and love are vital, they are often attractive to his children. Though they must personally decide whether or not to follow Christ, they will usually follow in the footsteps of their godly parents. Wise parents will exert the kind of loving discipline that insures that their children will also submit their leadership.

"not overbearing" (Titus 1:7)

Self-willed, overbearing overseers force their opinions on others. While church members and lay leaders should respectfully follow the leadership of their pastor, the pastor should not become dictatorial or act like he always has to have his own way.

"not quick-tempered" (Titus 1:7)

Though our Lord has displayed a righteous anger, much of our anger is aimed unrighteously toward others. We are to control the flare-ups that encourage us to “fly off the handle” and speak before we think.

5 "not pursuing dishonest gain" (Titus 1:7)

Titus 1:11 talks of false teachers in Crete who were “teaching things they ought not to teach” for the sake of “dishonest gain.” Elders must be ethical in every dimension of their finances – in the home, church, and community.

"one who loves what is good” (Titus 1:8)

This speaks of a devotion to good wherever it is found. A pastor should have a strong affection for good people, good things, and good activities.

"upright, holy" (Titus 1:8)

A holy man of God should be set apart from the world and for the Lord. His integrity will be modeled by honesty, sticking to his word, and practicing what he preaches. He will avoid sins and exhibit virtues.

"disciplined" (Titus 1:8)

Yielding to the control of the Holy Spirit, the disciplined pastor diligently invests all the resources that God has entrusted to his stewardship. Time, finances, and people will all be handled carefully so the greatest fruit results.

"He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught" (Titus 1:9)

An elder must love and live God’s Word. He should have strong convictions based upon the entire body of God’s truths as revealed in the Bible. Those who are spiritual leaders have a clean conscience in knowing that they have sought those truths, treasured them, trusted them, and applied them to life.

THE PASTOR -- Serving As a Shepherd

The title pastor, or shepherd, is one of God's favorite terms for describing His relationship to His people. The treasured 23rd Psalm begins with the assuring words, "The LORD is my shepherd." Psalm 100:3 reminds us that "We are his people, the sheep of his pasture." Ezekiel prophesied: "As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them ... I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down" (34:12, 15). In John's gospel, Jesus describes Himself as "the good shepherd" (10:11). Hebrews 13:20 calls Jesus "the great Shepherd of the sheep" and Peter calls Him "the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (I Pet 2:25). It is, therefore, quite an honor that God would share this designation with church leaders. It is also quite a responsibility. Christ treasures His sheep so much that He laid down His life for them (Jn. 10:11, 15, 17-18) and purchased them with His blood (Acts 20:28). Though the Lord Jesus remains the Chief Shepherd, He has "entrusted" God's flock to the "care" of pastors (I Peter 5:1-4). These under-shepherds are to provide nurture and protection.

6 The Shepherd Feeds the Flock (I Tim. 3:2; 5:17-18; Titus 1:9; Eph. 4:11-12)

The pastor is to "preach" and "teach" the Word of God. A prior requirement would be a strong loyalty to and an exceptional understanding of the Bible.

"Now the overseer must be.. able to teach" (I Tim. 3:2).

"The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching" (I Tim. 5:17-18).

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction." (II Tim. 3:16-4:2).

"He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it" (Titus 1:9).

In that preaching is such a critical part of the pastor's role, he needs to have the time to do it well. Adequate preparation for one sermon may take fifteen hours or even more. This, of course will vary, dependent upon the preacher, text, and subject. But it takes time to study a text within its context, do word and grammar studies, consult numerous commentaries, organize a message, design a clear outline, find illustrations, think through practical applications, and then practice it so that it can be given in a fluent, natural way. People often have strong opinions as to what makes “good” preaching and teaching. These opinions usually relate to a pastor’s style of delivery. But Scripture displays God’s messengers exhibiting widely varying personalities and mannerisms. The most important thing is that spiritual men are interpreting God’s Word accurately and communicating it clearly. Through his instruction, the pastor is to equip members to be effective ministers. Equipping can take place through preaching, teaching, discipling, writing, and other forms of training.

"It was he (Jesus) who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service (ministry), so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Eph. 4:11-12).

If the pastor is doing his ministry, he is not doing all the ministry -- he is equipping others to do their share. Many church members have faulty expectations of the pastor. They believe it is his job to do the counseling, the calling, the caring, etc. But God has gifted each member of the body so that collectively, they will build up each other. The pastor shouldn't do their work; he should help them do their work more effectively.5

7 The Shepherd Guards the Flock

Pastors are to protect the flock from those who would introduce false teaching and disunity. This requires a strong grasp of Scripture and a firm handling of those that threaten the body. A shepherd's staff was not just used to guide the sheep, it was also used to fight off wolves.

 "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard!" (Acts 20:28-31)

 "He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group. They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach--and that for the sake of dishonest gain." (Titus 1:9-11)

THE OVERSEER -- Serving As a Leader

Lead the Flock

The leadership position of the pastor is clear from the title "overseer" (also translated "bishop"). Just as Christ is the Overseer of all believers, so pastors are overseers of their local church (I Pet. 5:1-4). Serving as supervisors, they are to "manage" (I Tim. 3:5) and "rule" (I Tim. 5:17) the church. Under the leadership of Jesus Christ, pastors should serve as the key leaders in churches. Studies have demonstrated that churches that disregard that principle stymie their health and growth. According to Dr. Saucy, "Elders are also undoubtedly in mind when Paul writes to the Thessalonian believers "to know them which labor among you, and are over you [proistamenous] in the Lord" (I Th. 5:12). Again the writer to the Hebrews certainly refers to elders in the description, "them which have the rule over you" (hegeomai, literally, to lead or guide) Heb. 13:7, 17, 24."6 Church members are instructed to "obey your leaders and submit to their authority" (Heb.13:17). Leadership is far more than a position or a title; it is influence. A pastor should use prayerful persuasion to help guide a flock towards God's goals: the fulfillment of the great commandments (Matthew 22:36-39) and the great commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Leadership styles will vary. Each pastor has been crafted uniquely by God and no church is identical to another. A wise pastor will study his situation and use an approach that works for him and them.7 It should be admitted that that discernment will not make the pastor popular with everyone. In most churches there are one or more critics defaming a pastor for not being a good leader, when in reality, the pastor just isn’t leading in the same way their detractors would if they had the power (which, in fact, they are usually seeking).

8 The diversity of leadership pathways doesn't legitimatize every style. With regard to leadership temptations, pastors must carefully maneuver through two contrasting hazards. First, they must not abdicate their role as overseers. This is as irresponsible as husbands who fail to be the head of their home. The opposite danger is using their position to exhibit dictatorial attitudes. Pastors are not to "lord it over" the church (I Pet. 5:3). They are to model the same servant leadership style exhibited by Christ (Luke 22:26). Wise pastors will neither relinquish nor monopolize leadership. Instead, they will use their leadership to empower other leaders. The multiplication of leaders results in the mobilization of more ministers. True leaders limit their leadership spheres so that they can expand the leadership of others. Acts 6 gives a case study of good leadership. 1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." Poor leaders would have taken on this new ministry themselves. The apostles provided oversight by presenting a good solution to the problem but they delegated the task to other godly servants. They even appointed the selection of those men to the rest of the disciples. Among the applications inherent in this model is this: let pastors be leaders not managers. If you burden them with “running” everything, you will diffuse their true leadership and decrease the devotion that they must give to their primary roles.

Heed the Flock

Instead of using their positions to get their own way, pastors are to seek the will of the one true Head of the Church. Recognizing the principle of the priesthood of the believer, the church's direction is chosen by the Lord and recognized by the people who together determine what the Lord's will is. That means that leaders must be submissive and accountable to the wider body. Just as our physical bodies have a skeletal system, so the "body of Christ" has structure. In a very careful balance, God directs a church through its members and supervises that direction through its leaders. In both cases, Scripture is the ultimate authority. God reveals His will to a church primarily through His Word, and secondarily, on issues not covered in Scripture, through His people. A congregational form of government resembles a democratic system. But there is a crucial difference. In a democracy, each person gives a vote reflecting his own will. In a congregation, each person gives a vote that they believe reflects God's will. According to the doctrine of the priesthood of the believer, every Christian has direct access to God (I Pet. 2:5). He should study the Bible, pray for guidance, and then express to the body His perception of God's will. The church should listen equally to each view and then move in the direction suggested by the majority.

9 It is the responsibility of pastors, deacons and all other church leaders to be submissive to the collective voice of the people. They should not only hearken to that voice at congregational meetings, they ought to represent it in their board or committee meetings. Failure to display a submissive spirit demonstrates two spiritual deficiencies: the presence of arrogance and an absence of accountability. Only the most conceited would claim that they have a corner on wisdom and God's will. Strongly desiring to discover the direction that God wants a church to move, a pastor should hearken to the people through whom the Lord often gives guidance. Pastors serve as the overseers of the church. The deacons work with them as managers of various watchcare ministries. The members are to respond to this leadership team with obedience and respect. Simultaneously, leaders must recognize their need to be accountable to the body. The unaccountable Christian is particularly vulnerable to a number of hazards. For leaders, mutual accountability should also be practiced on the board level. This is true whether the composition is deacons or elders. For churches that just have a deacon board, it is important to recognize that even though God has placed deacons under the leadership of pastors, those in both positions should still exhibit a submissive spirit towards each other. To protect the leadership board from internal “power plays,” it is wise to nail down the proper role relationships. The senior pastor is to be the leader of leaders not only with his staff but also within the board (whether it consists of deacons or elders).8 No one board member, including the chairman, should attempt to usurp the senior pastor’s authority. But when they collectively make a decision that is consistent with Scripture, all the participants, even the lead pastor, should be submissive. In conclusion, churches should give overseers freedom to “lead” them. And pastors should give churches respect by determining to heed their impressions of how God is directing. The result is that pastors have leadership and the people have ownership. This model provides both protection and productivity. With regard to protection, this model guards a church from dictatorial leaders. Productivity is provided because this model releases the strong leadership that is needed for a church to maximize its growth and health.

Who, How Many, and How Much?

While pastors are often seminary graduates, the Bible makes no such requirement. Getting a firm grasp of Scripture and ministry skills may come through formal schooling but they can also be gained through self-study and the training that results from a church's disciple- making efforts. Pastors may be full-time, paid "professionals" or they may be men within the church that God has raised up to serve as elders in their spare time. How about you? God may be calling you to serve in this role, so be open to the inner desires that He may place in your heart. I Timothy 3:1 says, "Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.” Sometimes churches with elders create a new office for this role. They, then, have three offices: pastors, elders, and deacons. This, as has been shown, is contrary to the New Testament model that demonstrates that the terms “pastor” and “elders” are two different designations for the same position.

10 Some elder boards adopt the mistaken notion that since they are all pastors, there should be no leadership distinctions. As noted before, the Senior Pastor should be “a leader among leaders.” That certainly seemed to be the case with Pastor James and the church in Jerusalem. In fact, you can go through Scripture and almost always pick out the primary leader in every situation. That is God’s pattern for harmonious, efficient relationships in the home, government, and the church. Not every elder/pastor/overseer has an identical role. While each should have some measure of these three dimensions, it is proper that people specialize in accordance with the gifts and place in the body assigned by God (I Tim. 5:17). The Bible is silent regarding the number of pastors that a church should have. With regard to pastors, it appears that it was the norm for a church to have more than one. Gordon Johnson, the author of My Church states that, "This was doubtless due to the fact that a church might be meeting in several different groups. This demanded a plurality of elders or pastors to serve these local groups.”9 Many church consultants recommend one pastor for every 100-150 attenders. This figure relates to full-time positions and not the extra volunteer elders that are part of many churches. How many hours should a full-time pastor should work in a typical week? A general rule of thumb practiced by many is this: 40 hours (a work week norm) plus the average amount of hours that a strong lay leader in his church would contribute. This will usually be around 50 to 55 hours a week. This will obviously vary. A pastor who puts in 70+ hours during a grueling week should try to schedule more time off the next so that he doesn't deplete his energies or rob his family of attention. The hours worked in a day may also be scattered. I have no problem with an overseer who may use part of his afternoon for recreation if he puts in a lot of time in the morning and evening. His place of work is also diverse. For example, some study best at home while others do better in the office. I have one colleague that often takes his briefcase to the library. One should work where he is most productive. (This freedom may not be able to be practiced in a church where members have some skepticism about a pastor's work ethic. In that scenario, the elder would be wise to maintain a more visible presence). Due to the heavy demands on the pastor, it is wise for him to take generous vacation time each year. He will also want to engage in professional enrichment seminars. These time investments will provide the refreshment retooling needed to do his ministry better.

The Pastor's Treatment

In his book "Support Your Local Pastor," Wes Roberts quotes from a revealing survey of pastors conducted by the Fuller Institute of Church Growth. This survey reported the following frightening statistics:

80% believe that pastoral ministry is affecting their family negatively.

33% say that "Being in ministry is clearly a hazard to my family."

11 75% have reported a significant crisis due to stress at least once every five years in their ministry.

50% feel unable to meet the needs of the job.

90% feel they were not adequately trained to cope with the ministry demands placed upon them.

40% report having a serious conflict with a parishioner at least once a month

70% have a lower self-image after they've pastored than when they started.

50% of pastors have considered leaving the ministry within the last three months.

The Barna Research Group states that today’s religious leaders have become increasingly overworked and underappreciated. Pastors deal with dangerously unrealistic expectations. One report refers to them as the “most occupationally frustrated people in America.” Though many pastors are doing fine emotionally and spiritually, it is a position that is at the front lines of spiritual warfare. The adversary often attempts to damage a congregation by first wounding its shepherd. The bottom line is this. Being a pastor can be a very difficult, draining role. It is critical that Christians determine that they will minister to their pastors and not just expect ministry from them. This is a God-given responsibility. Church members should support pastors by treating them the way God instructs in the following verses.

Choose to respect your pastor.

1 Thess. 5:12 -- Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.

Love him with unconditional love.

1 Thess. 5:13 -- Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.

Follow his leadership in submissive obedience.

Heb. 13:7 -- Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.

Heb. 13:17-- Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you

12 2 Tim. 2:24-26 -- And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

Make his work a joy not a burden.

Heb. 13:17 -- …Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden…

Uphold him in prayer.

Heb. 13:18 -- Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. 19 I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon.

Col. 4:2-4 -- Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.

Generously meet your pastor’s needs

1 Tim. 5:17-18 -- The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain," and "The worker deserves his wages." (Also see Phil. 2:25; 4:10-19).

Don’t play the comparison game

1 Cor. 3:3-5 -- You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men? 4 For when one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men? 5 What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe -- as the Lord has assigned each his task.

1 Cor. 4:6 -- Now, brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, "Do not go beyond what is written." Then you will not take pride in one man over against another.

Appreciate his God-given uniqueness.

2 Cor. 10:10 -- For some say, "His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing." 12 We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 13 We, however, will

13 not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you.

1 Cor. 12:4-7 -- There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. 7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.

1 Cor. 12:11 -- All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.

Don’t allow the pastor to do your ministry.

Eph. 4:11-12 -- It was he (Jesus) who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service (ministry), so that the body of Christ may be built up… From Him (Christ) the whole body, joined together by every supporting ligaments, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Handle your differences in a biblical way.

Matt. 18:15-17 -- If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16 But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

1 Tim. 5:19-20 -- Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning.

Do you have some concerns about your pastor? You disagree with something he taught, said or did? Here are some biblical and appropriate steps for dealing with the issues you are unhappy about.

1. Search your heart. Allow God to purge it of sinful, selfishness and personal bias. Make sure that you are dealing with objective issues and not just personal opinions and style preferences.

2. Go to the leader personally and privately (Matthew 18:15). Don't harbor your negative feelings on the inside or share them with others. And make sure you don't surprise the leader at a meeting. No one should be ambushed in public.

14 3. Be gentle in your carefronting (Gal. 6:1). It is possible to be "in the right" on the issue but "in the wrong" with your delivery. Your concern for the matter at hand should never be more important than the person with whom you are dealing.

4. Be specific. Generalized complaints not only can be misunderstood but they also provide few handles for the listener to work on his or her problem.

5. Give suggestions for improvement. Unless you do, you are just assigning blame and not offering help. Are you trying to build up the leader or put him or her down?

6. Deal with external actions, not motives (I Cor. 4:3-5). We cannot read minds or perceive the intentions of a heart. Only God can do that. All we can do is inspect a person's outward fruit.

7. If the leader is not responsive, take along a companion (Matthew 18:16). This person will add gravity to the situation, add clarity if the conversation becomes confusing, and serve as a witness if the matter remains unresolved.

8. If there is no repentance of sin, you and your witness should share your concerns with the church leadership team and, if necessary, the church (Matthew 18:17).10

Hopefully you will be more active sharing affirmations than concerns. God can use you to build up your pastor. A revitalized pastor will help produce a vibrant church.

Summary

I Timothy 3:1 describes the pastorate as a “noble task.” How noble? Those who serve as pastors get to regularly deal with two priceless commodities: God’s Word and God’s people. What a privilege! The position is also quite lucrative. Don't get me wrong -- there aren't big bucks in it, but God promises that faithful overseers will receive a "crown of glory that does not fade away" (I Peter 5:4).

7/13/09

15 1 Robert L. Saucy, The Church in God's Program, (Chicago: Moody Press, 1972), p. 140. 2 Millard Erickson, Christian Theology (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1985) p. 1081. 3 W. E. Vine, An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, Publishers, 1952), p. 120. 4 John K. Hutcheson, Sr, Pastors Make Time for Those You Love (Crosswalk Pastors Resource: Youth Pastor: Pastors: Make Time for Those You Love - Jan. 9, 2005) 5 Many view the pastor as the minister. "This means," says C. Peter Wagner, "the pastor is expected to do just about everything that happens in the church except sit in the pews during the worship service -- lead people to Christ, counsel believers who have problems, visit the sick in the hospital and at home, monitor the spiritual life of each believer, say grace at church suppers, publish the bulletin and the newsletter, pay the bills, make a pastoral call to each home every year, write letters to visitors, keep in touch with college students and armed service personnel, distribute food to the needy at Christmas time, and preach forty-eight sermons a year. Failure in any of these is likely to draw the comment, 'Well what are we paying the pastor for, anyhow?' The growth potential for a church on this side of the spectrum is very low." (Larry K. Weeden, ed., The Magnetic Fellowship, p. 26.) 6 Saucy, p. 143. 7 "Church leaders need to be aware of their own personalities and temperaments in a realistic way. Moving outside those boundaries may seem to work for a while, but it will usually break down over the long haul." (Wagner, p. 19.) 8 The board that treats the pastor like their employee is programming their church for a plateau. "Research has indicated that the potential for church growth increases as the leadership role of the pastor increases..." (Wagner, p. 10). 9 Gordon C. Johnson, My Church (Evanston, IL: Harvest Publications, 1979), p 103. 10 Adopted from Ron Sheveland's book, Discover Your Ministry Niche.