The Roles And Responsibilities Of A Pastor

The Blueprint for Biblical Church Leadership: What to Look for in a Pastor

Have you ever wondered what qualities to look for in a pastor? As someone who has been in ministry for over 45 years, I’ve learned a thing or two about pastoral leadership. Whether you’re searching for a new church home or simply want to better understand the Biblical qualifications for pastors, this message will provide you with a clear blueprint straight from Scripture.

The Call of God

First and foremost, you need someone who is called by God to pastoral ministry. In Acts 20:28, Paul reminds the Ephesian elders that “the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” of the church. A true pastor isn’t in it for fame, money, or popularity. Rather, they serve because God has set them apart for this specific purpose.

A pastor called by God will demonstrate:
– A vibrant relationship with the Holy Spirit
– Commitment to teaching the whole counsel of Scripture 
– A genuine shepherd’s heart for God’s people

As D.A. Carson wisely noted, “The list of qualifications for elders is remarkable for being unremarkable.” In other words, pastors should exemplify the godly character expected of all believers.

Biblical Qualifications

When seeking pastoral leadership, look for someone who meets the scriptural qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. These include being:

• Above reproach 
• Faithful to their spouse
• Temperate and self-controlled
• Respectable and hospitable
• Able to teach
• Not given to drunkenness or violence
• Gentle and not quarrelsome
• Not a lover of money
• Managing their household well
• Not a recent convert
• Well thought of by outsiders

Remember, no pastor will be perfect. But they should be continually growing in godly character and setting an example for the flock.

God-Given Responsibilities 

Beyond character, look for pastors who faithfully carry out their Biblical responsibilities:

1. Prioritize prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4)
2. Shepherd and feed God’s flock (1 Peter 5:2, Acts 20:28)
3. Labor diligently in preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 5:17)
4. Lead the church (Titus 1:7)
5. Equip the saints for ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12)
6. Protect God’s people from false teaching (Acts 20:28-31)
7. Provide practical care and support (James 5:14)

As Martin Luther said, “He who has prayed well has studied well.” Look for a pastor who is both a man of prayer and a diligent student of God’s Word.

Putting It Into Practice

So how can you apply these truths? Here are some practical next steps:

1. Pray for your pastors regularly. As Charles Spurgeon said when asked about his ministry’s success: “My people pray for me.”
2. Follow their godly example as they follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).
3. Listen attentively to the preaching and teaching of God’s Word.
4. Support your pastors as they fulfill their God-given responsibilities.
5. Hold pastoral leadership accountable to Biblical standards.

Remember, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and pastors are simply under-shepherds called to care for His flock. By understanding and embracing God’s design for pastoral leadership, we can foster healthy, vibrant churches that glorify Christ and build up His people.