A pastor is a teaching elder who is an ordained shepherd and spiritual overseer of Christ’s church, called and equipped by God to preach the Word, administer the sacraments, pray for and with the people, and lead the flock in accordance with Scripture. He serves alongside elders and deacons to guide the congregation toward maturity in faith and obedience to Christ.
1. Know the Sheep – Builds relationships with members and ensures all members are known and cared for.
2. Feed the Sheep – Preaches and teaches God’s Word faithfully, administers the sacraments, and ensures sound doctrine and spiritual nourishment.
3. Lead the Sheep – Casts biblical vision, equips leaders, models godliness, and mobilizes the church for gospel ministry.
4. Protect the Sheep – Guards against false teaching, moral compromise, and division, promoting unity, holiness, and truth.
The Pastor coordinates the Shepherding Ministry, trains the elders and under-shepherds, and ensures that every member receives spiritual care.
• Because Christ has called pastors to shepherd His flock, accountable to Him (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2–4).
• Because the Word and sacraments are the God-ordained means by which the Spirit builds and nourishes His church.
• Because love for Christ compels the pastor to love His people and labor for their spiritual growth and perseverance.
• Because faithful shepherding glorifies God and fulfills the Great Commission within the local congregation.
• He preaches and teaches the whole counsel of God with clarity, conviction, and pastoral warmth.
• He prays continually for the congregation and models dependence on the Holy Spirit.
• He trains and equips elders, deacons, lay shepherds, and small group leaders to share in the shepherding work so the saints can build up the body of Christ.
• He maintains regular contact primarily with the elders through visitation, counseling, and discipleship.
• He oversees and evaluates the church’s shepherding plan, ensuring that every member is known and cared for.
• He leads with humility and integrity, reflecting Christ’s heart for His people.
