Cornerstone Curriculum, Official Certification Edition

LESSON 2 | FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP: THE CHRISTIAN LEADER AS PASTOR / 311

spiritually advisable nor fiscally desirable. The church had very few financial resources but, in obedience to their new pastor, renovated the inside of the parsonage, and after some weeks the pastor and his family moved into the newly decorated home. The actual tenure of the pastor at the church was both fruitful and cordial. What do you think of this pastor’s insistence that the congregation provide for its leaders in an acceptable manner – did he go too far in his leadership here? I Can’t Submit to a Woman A rift is beginning to occur among the members and leaders of a socially progressive evangelical church in a needy urban neighborhood. This congregation has become known around the city for its staunch stance against racism and sexism in any form. At its annual business meeting, the head elder announced the retirement of the church’s current pastor, and in his place, the elders are recommending a godly, mature woman to pastor the church. Seminary trained, a gifted teacher, and deeply spiritual individual, this sister is liked by the entire congregation, whom she has served in various capacities over the last ten years. Some of the male members, however, struggle with this candidacy, not because she is not qualified spiritually, but because she is a woman. This has sparked a strong debate among the members, some of which feel so deeply that they have promised to leave the church if she is voted in. How ought the church approach and handle this issue of women and the pastorate? No Wiggle Room to Maneuver Many churches do not allow their pastor to be involved in the everyday decisions of administration, finance, personnel, or facilities. Arguing from the position of Acts 6, those who refuse this kind of participation for their pastors suggest that the role of the pastor is spiritual not administrative or technical. Issues of finance and administration are the province of others; the pastor ought to concentrate on issues surrounding the Word of God, prayer, and equipping the saints for ministry. Because of these restrictions, however, many pastors have little or no input into many things that affect the church’s future, including their own salaries and benefits. What is the proper role for pastoral leadership in the ongoing operations of a church? Should they concentrate solely on spiritual matters, or should they be included in all decisions affecting the church. Make your case with Scripture, if possible.

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C hr i s t i an M i n i s t ry

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