Flourishing Flocks Require Faithful Shepherds And Supportive Sheep

Flourishing Flocks: How to Support Your Shepherds

Have you ever wondered what it takes for a church to truly thrive? As a pastor for over three decades, I’ve come to realize that flourishing flocks require two key ingredients: faithful shepherds and supportive sheep. Today, I want to focus on that second part – how we as church members can better support and encourage our pastors.

The Challenging Reality of Pastoral Ministry

Before we dive in, let me share some sobering statistics about the state of pastoral ministry today:

– 38% of pastors are thinking of quitting the ministry
– 80% believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families 
– 35% battle depression
– Only 1 out of 10 pastors will actually retire as a pastor

As I often say, “There is nothing that I would ever, ever want to do other than what God has called me. And that is shepherding and pastoring.” But the reality is, ministry can be incredibly challenging. That’s why it’s so vital that we understand what the Bible teaches about how to relate to our pastors.

Biblical Principles for Supporting Your Pastors

1. Pastors are to be respected

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17).

The Bible calls us to show deep respect for pastors who faithfully shepherd the flock and labor in teaching God’s Word. This goes beyond just being polite – it means truly valuing and esteeming the work they do.

I’ll ask you an honest question: Does your church truly value those who labor in the Word and preach and teach to them? When you find pastors who are laboring in the Word and they’re faithful to the truth of Scripture, we need to do what the Bible says and honor them.

2. Pastors are to be compensated

“You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain, and the laborer deserves his wages” (1 Timothy 5:18).

Providing fair compensation for pastors isn’t just a nice gesture – it’s Biblical. And this principle extends to all church staff who labor faithfully. As I often remind our church, people like our financial secretary, administrative assistant, and children’s ministry director all deserve our respect and appropriate compensation for their work.

3. Pastors are to be protected

“Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19).

It’s easy to be critical of those in authority. But the Bible tells us not to entertain accusations against church leaders without proper evidence. We must be careful not to participate in gossip or slander against our pastors.

4. Pastors are to be rebuked if in sin

“As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear” (1 Timothy 5:20).

While we protect our pastors from false accusations, we must also hold them accountable. If a pastor is persisting in sin, the church should rebuke them publicly. This demonstrates that we take sin seriously at every level.

5. Pastors are to be remembered

“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7).

We should remember and appreciate the pastors who have impacted our lives over the years. Take time to reach out and thank former pastors for their influence.

6. Pastors are to be obeyed

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account” (Hebrews 13:17).

This doesn’t mean blind obedience to a pastor’s every whim. Rather, it means listening to and following their Biblical teaching and counsel. When we resist godly pastoral leadership, it brings them grief rather than joy.

7. Pastors are to be prayed for

“Pray for us” (Hebrews 13:18).

Your pastors desperately need your prayers. Pray for their preaching, their families, their spiritual growth, and for open doors for ministry.

Putting It Into Practice

So how can we apply these Biblical principles in practical ways? Here are some suggestions:

1. Regularly express appreciation to your pastors for their teaching and leadership.
2. Ensure your church provides fair compensation and benefits for pastoral staff.
3. Refuse to participate in gossip about church leaders.
4. Hold pastors accountable to Biblical standards with love and grace.
5. Reach out to former pastors to thank them for their impact.
6. Listen to and apply the Biblical teaching of your pastors.
7. Commit to praying for your pastors daily.

Remember, “long term pastoral leadership brings stability and consistency. It allows for deeper relationships. It helps the church foster spiritual growth, effective outreach, and really gives a legacy of faith.” By supporting our pastors Biblically, we contribute to building healthy, flourishing churches that impact the world for Christ.