Here are standards for those who are Pastors, elders, or leaders in a church. If you would LIKE to become a Pastor, elder, or leader, study the Scriptures to discover what is required of such a person. Then begin to live that out in your life; behave as if you already ARE a Pastor, elder, or leader. It will not go unnoticed by God, and He will put you into the position that you desire. (1 Tim. 3:1)
Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords (masters) over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. (1 Pet 5:2, 3 NKJV)
- Shepherd the flock of God AMONG YOU! That means everyone that you come into contact with daily! Make an impact for GOOD on those with whom you connect regularly—including your own family members. (Mk 3:14; 16:15; Ac 5:42; 8:4; Heb 6:10, 11; 2 Tim 4:2)
- We’re to serve as overseers. An overseer is an administrator, manager, or someone who gets things done. We were not elevated to our responsible position in order to prosper financially or to charge people fees. We never saw Jesus give us such an example. We’re to help people—help them receive all that they need by whatever means that the Lord directs us to use. Whatever a person’s needs are, the salvation of Jesus Christ has already met that need! We’re put here to help people to see this truth, and to help them to receive God’s blessings. (Mt 6:10; 16:19; 18:19; Ac 20:28; Phil 4:19; Col 1:27; 1 Joh 5:14, 15)
- We are supposed to serve willingly and eagerly, with a good attitude and cheerful heart. We are called, each one of us, to BE a blessing! (Col 3:23-24; 1 Pet 3:9)
- We are told not to “lord” it over people. Instead we are to sacrifice and humble ourselves even as our Savior, Jesus, sacrificed and humbled Himself to provide and secure our salvation. (Mt 18:4; 23:12; Rom 12:1, 16; Eph 5:2; Phil 2:8; Heb 13:16; 1 Pet 2:5; 5:6; Jas 4:6, 10)
- The sheep have been entrusted to the care of their church leaders, and we are NEVER to harm the sheep. We are serving as an under-shepherd under the authority of Jesus, the Good Shepherd! (Jer 50:6; Eze 34:10; Joh 10:11, 14; 1 Pet 5:4)
- The Word tells us that we should be examples to the flock. Jesus was our example, and we’re to follow in His footsteps. (Joh 13:14-16; Phil 3:17; 1 Pet 2:21)
May God bless you and flood you with His love and grace, as you pursue your leadership role in the Kingdom of God.
decidingvoteblog 