Foundations of Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG07

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F O U N D A T I O N S O F C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

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. In both the OT and NT, the image of shepherding is given for the leader of God’s people, roeh in Hebrew and poimen in koine Greek, with both meaning “shepherd,” “to shepherd,” and to “provide pastoral care.” The Lord God, rulers and kings, and the coming Messiah are all perceived as shepherds of God’s people. The concept of pastor developed throughout the Church, from the care that all Christians provided to eventually a formal role for those individuals who would care for God’s flock. Jesus himself is the prototype for the pastoral ministry, and God call’s and gifts particular individuals to provide this care for the Church. Depending on the government structure of the church, the pastor exercises his care giving responsibility in different ways, but all through the functions of a shepherd , i.e., one who teaches and preaches the Word, administers the sacraments, comforts the bereaved, performs marriages, and equips the body for the work of the ministry. The Word of God provides three clear models and analogies of what a pastor does as care giver to the people of God as his flock. The pastor is a nurturer who ensures that God’s people receive proper nourishment, feeding, tending, and care. Furthermore, the pastor is a protector and guardian who guards the people of God against any predators or situations which would seek to harm or destroy them. Finally, the pastor is a leader called to go before the people of God and lead them into the fullness of the will of God for their individual and corporate lives. More than ever before the urban church needs pastors who will nourish, protect, and lead urban disciples of Christ to mature in Christ and give witness to the Kingdom of God in the city. God makes unequivocal promises to those who faithfully fulfill their work of shepherding the flock of God–they will receive the unfading crown of glory when the Chief Shepherd appears at the Second Coming.

Restatement of the Lesson’s Thesis

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