Dimensions of the role of a Pastor
A Pastor has so many roles to play. He must bless little children, marry young couples, bury the dead, comfort & encourage, exhort, teach, train, set example, be strong for others to lean on, handle finances expertly, humbly accept what people are willing to give, pray for the congregation, counsel them, listen to their problems and find solutions, hear from God and bring God’s message and still enjoy living! Here are a few dimensions of the role of a Pastor to consider and appreciate:
1. Unique – renaissance person employing a number of skills to serve God and
humanity –spiritual growth is intangible – don’t always see results
2. Calling - not a career that has a goal in view with a clear roadmap– is a divine appointment – Moses doubted if they would listen – poor speaker – ‘I will be with you’ – the place God sends you to is where your joy and the people’s hunger will meet. Jesus for the joy set before Him endured the cross. A career needs professionals. Ministry needs fools for Christ’s sake. ‘You did not choose Me; I chose you’
3. Changes required – outgrow frustrations into effectiveness – such as lack of respect, empty flattery to gain an advantage, temptations, flying like an eagle is risky business
4. Leadership – initiative required – respond to issues – delegate and oversee delegation – make room for mistakes as people grow
5. Performance – be yourself – be real – avoid discouragement, lust, anger, ambition, fear of failure
6. Weakness – acknowledge – human with divine inspiration – Paul says he glories in his weakness so that Christ’s strength can be shown – strength alone does not make a ministry – over-confident person puts people off – platoon leader – sometimes has to clear a minefield by himself – honest feedback to those who carry out orders – deal with what you hate – find resources – anecdotes, stories – practice makes perfect
7. Accountable – to God and to family & church – people can’t control pastor – Nicolaitan – do not try to live up to people’s expectations -
8. Time management – learn to do it right the first time – balance time – don’t eat to much and get enough rest & sleep – have a Sabbath rest free of chores and duties – choose refreshing activities – concentrate on what you do well – ask others to help in other areas – publish priorities – give the church the fruit of a healthy life -
9. Family – let them love ministry and not hate it – ask yourself: if I’m no longer pastor what will be the things that will endure? Relationships – refrain from speaking about church problems in front of family – don’t be sarcastic about church members.
10. Extra mile – integrity – be willing to help people on the way like the Samaritan
11. Evaluate – values – love people you serve
12. Shepherd’s heart – avoid threats – soar like an eagle see afar off -
What people expect from a Pastor
Preacher
Counselor
Administrator
Evangelist
Political analyst
Janitor
Secretary
Important Relationships for a Pastor
Co-workers & Compensation
Church problems/ family problems
Finances
A Pastor visits the sick, prepares sermons, soothes the hurts of people, solves conflicts and has to meet the budget. Who is equal to such a task?
