It's easy to fall into the trap of viewing our pastors as all-powerful figures, the ultimate authority on every aspect of our lives. We might hang on to their every word as if it were direct divine decree. While respect and honor for our spiritual leaders are absolutely vital, it's crucial to remember a fundamental truth: your pastor is a leader, not a dictator.
The Bible itself paints a clear picture of pastoral leadership. Pastors are called to be shepherds, guiding and caring for their flock, not ruling with an iron fist.
1 Peter 5:2-3 NIV [2] Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; [3] not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
Using this passage, I want to highlight several key aspects of healthy pastoral leadership:
Psalms 23:2-3 NIV [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, [3] he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Philippians 3:17 NIV Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
When we view our pastors as dictators, we risk several dangers:
A healthy church thrives on mutual respect and understanding. We should honor our pastors for their dedication and service, listen attentively to their teachings, and prayerfully consider their guidance.
1 Timothy 5:17 NIV The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.
However, we are also called to be discerning believers, studying scripture for ourselves and seeking the Holy Spirit's wisdom.
Acts 17:11 NIV Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (emphasis mine)
Let's embrace a model of leadership where pastors guide, equip, and empower their congregations to grow in faith together. Let's remember that the ultimate authority rests with God, and our pastors are His appointed servants, walking alongside us on our spiritual journey.
Romans 13:1 NIV Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (emphasis mine)
The Bible itself paints a clear picture of pastoral leadership. Pastors are called to be shepherds, guiding and caring for their flock, not ruling with an iron fist.
1 Peter 5:2-3 NIV [2] Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; [3] not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
Using this passage, I want to highlight several key aspects of healthy pastoral leadership:
- Shepherding: The image of a shepherd evokes care, guidance, and protection. A shepherd leads the sheep to green pastures and still waters, not by force, but by gentle guidance.
Psalms 23:2-3 NIV [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, [3] he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
- Oversight, Not Domination: Pastors are called to oversee the spiritual well-being of the congregation, but this oversight should not become heavy-handed control. The Greek word that Peter used for "watching over" (episkopeō) implies careful attention and guidance, not dictatorial rule.
- Leading by Example: The most powerful form of leadership isn't through commands, but through example. Pastors are called to live lives that inspire and encourage their congregations to follow Christ.
Philippians 3:17 NIV Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
When we view our pastors as dictators, we risk several dangers:
- Blind Obedience: We may stop thinking critically and discerning scripture for ourselves, relying solely on our pastor's interpretation.
- Fear and Intimidation: A dictatorial approach can create an atmosphere of fear rather than love and trust, hindering genuine spiritual growth.
- Burnout for the Pastor: The pressure to be the ultimate authority on everything can lead to immense stress and burnout for the pastor.
A healthy church thrives on mutual respect and understanding. We should honor our pastors for their dedication and service, listen attentively to their teachings, and prayerfully consider their guidance.
1 Timothy 5:17 NIV The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.
However, we are also called to be discerning believers, studying scripture for ourselves and seeking the Holy Spirit's wisdom.
Acts 17:11 NIV Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (emphasis mine)
Let's embrace a model of leadership where pastors guide, equip, and empower their congregations to grow in faith together. Let's remember that the ultimate authority rests with God, and our pastors are His appointed servants, walking alongside us on our spiritual journey.
Romans 13:1 NIV Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (emphasis mine)
RSS Feed