I believe that the primary mission of the pastor is “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13).
I believe that the primary model of a pastor is that of a shepherd (1 Peter 5:1-4). The shepherd leads, feeds, nurtures, and protects the flock of God. The shepherd does not operate from a corporate or business mindset. People are the priority, not programs and personal agendas.
I believe that the primary mandate of the pastor is to preach and teach the whole counsel of God (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 4:1-2). This is primarily accomplished through the verse by verse exposition of Scripture.
I believe that the primary motive of the pastor is to be like Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:12-14; Romans 8:29). The person and work of Christ must saturate the heart and mind of the pastor. It is the life of Christ that the pastor must strive to emulate.
The Church is often times referred to as a flock, which was Jesus’ favorite description of the church (John 10:1-30, Matt.26:31, Matt. 25:33.) Therefore, it is cared for and led by shepherds. Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Do you really love me?” “Yes, Lord,” said Peter. “Then take care of my sheep.” John 21:16-17
Three different terms are used in the New Testament to refer to the same church leaders:
“POIMEN” — which means “pastor” and carries the idea of a shepherd.
“PRESBUTEROS” — which means “elder” and deals with qualifications.
“EPISCOPOS” — which means “overseer” and described the pastor’s role as an administrator.
“To the elders I say, “Be shepherds of God’s flock serving as overseers.” 1 Pet. 5:1-2
Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived he said to them “Guard yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be pastors of the church of God.” Acts 20:17-18, 28
So the pastor’s ministry is to love and guide the flock as a shepherd, to possess and manitain specific qualifications, and to be the lead administrator of a church as he listens to and follows Christ.
See also Titus 1:5-7, 1 Tim. 5:17
