S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Concerning the role of the pastor, the Bible says a great deal. The primary terms that describe the role of the pastor are "elder," "bishop," and "teacher" (1 Timothy 3:1-13). "Elder," or episkopos...

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July 01 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Philip Davies Supporter

The Bible has nothing to say about the role of senior pastor, because it is not mentioned in the Bible. It is a position invented by humans. As such it may or may not be helpful, but it doesn't have any Biblical authority.

Regards,
Philip

December 22 2014 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jim Stevens Supporter

The title of Senior Pastor seems to imply a hierarchy in the church which is not biblical. Anyone who is called and gifted by God to serve as a pastor/shepherd does well to heed the instructions in 1Peter 5, and especially verses 2-5 where the apostle warns against “lording it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by example.” and “...serve each other in humility, for God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” 

There are certainly senior pastors who function in their appointed role with godly humility as true servants of Christ. It is sad that there are also senior pastors who see themselves as having authority over others and abuse this position to control others or for profit- 2 Cor. 2:17 “...we are not like the many hucksters who preach for personal profit.”

The various titles used in scripture identified the work a person was doing, not something they were hired to do. A servant of Christ will show their love for him by humbly serving his people. Heb.: 6.10

January 18 2019 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report