Tonight at my church we had the opportunity to celebrate the ordination of a longtime faithful member of our congregation and the current pastor of our College and Career ministry. Prior to the laying on of hands by the elders and the prayer of affirmation of this dear brother in the faith, our senior pastor explained the steps of ordination – which is a rigorous process even above and beyond seminary training. A man’s character is tested, his biblical knowledge is challenged in an incredibly intense way, and his ability to teach and shepherd the flock are all scrutinized. Even just hearing about the process is enough to sober one into realizing the role of a pastor is not one to be pursued lightly. In the Christian church, it is both a calling and a responsibility of the highest order. A pastor is a servant of God, entrusted with the care and protection of the Chief Shepherd’s flock, and the faithful teaching of His Word to them without compromise. One might dare to argue that it is the most important job on the planet, and it is meant for only very specific men called of God.
The Bible outlines the qualifications of a pastor in detail. These scriptures serve as a guiding light for churches to select faithful leaders and as a standard for pastors to continually aspire to. First and foremost, a qualified pastor must be a man called by God to the ministry. This divine calling is essential because pastoral work is not merely a profession but a spiritual vocation. The Apostle Paul writes, “And how are they to preach unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:15). A pastor’s sense of calling should be affirmed by both personal conviction and the confirmation of the church body. This second part is particularly important because the church is the perfect proving ground for a man’s character.
Paul emphasized the importance of a pastor’s character in his first letter to Timothy, saying, “Therefore an overseer [pastor] must be above reproach…” (1 Timothy 3:2). This does not mean a pastor must be perfect. My senior pastor has often said that pastors are peers with the congregation in being sinners in need of a Savior. What should set them apart rather is that they are clear examples of what it means to be victorious over sin, living lives of integrity and holiness that reflect the character and teachings of Christ. Requiring exemplary character ensures that a pastor’s life is a testimony of their faith to all those whom they serve and protect.
Unlike other professions that have no real access or right to our home lives, the Bible places a strong emphasis on the pastor’s role within his family. Paul writes, “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive” (1 Timothy 3:4). A pastor who leads his family in godliness is better equipped to lead the church, which is often referred to as the family of God. Paul would go on to say in the very next verse, “If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?” (1 Timothy 3:5).
Obviously, teaching is a central responsibility of a pastor as well. Paul lists “able to teach” as a key qualification in 1 Timothy 3:2. This begins with a deep understanding of the Scriptures – often gained through years of seminary training. However, a man also needs to be able to communicate the Word effectively. A good pastor must rightly handle the Word of Truth (2 Timothy 2:15) and feed the flock with sound doctrine (Titus 1:9).
Next, a pastor’s ministry must be empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul reminded Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God” (2 Timothy 1:6). Here he was speaking specifically of Timothy’s personal gifting by the Holy Spirit to preach. Additionally, a pastor must be committed to prayer, as modeled by the Apostles when they said in Acts 6:4, “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). Through prayer and reliance on the Spirit, a pastor can lead with wisdom and strength.
Jesus Christ set the ultimate example of servant leadership, saying, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). A good pastor must adopt Christ’s humility into their own character, prioritizing the needs of the congregation over their own. Peter exhorted pastors to “shepherd the flock of God…not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2-3). I also believe every true pastor must ever be ready to follow the example of the Good Shepherd who “…lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11).
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) calls every believer to make disciples, and pastors must lead by example in this mission. Paul instructed Timothy, “Do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5). A pastor should have a heart for the lost and actively seek opportunities to share the gospel. The pastoral ministry is not without challenges, and a good pastor must endure hardships with faith. Paul’s words to Timothy are a powerful encouragement, “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:3). A pastor’s perseverance through suffering is the ultimate example of faithfulness to his congregation.
The qualifications of a good Christian pastor are both demanding and inspiring! They require a deep commitment to Christ Jesus, a heart for His flock, and a life and character that reflect the teachings of the Bible. While no pastor is perfect, those who strive to meet these biblical standards can effectively lead their congregations in faith, love, and truth. As Paul exhorted Timothy, “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16).
References
Scripture taken from the New International Version® (NIV®). Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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