7 roles of a pastor in the church: A biblical exploration and Southern Baptist position
The position of a pastor holds immense significance in Christian congregations. Derived from the Latin word "pastor," which means "shepherd," pastors are entrusted with the spiritual care and guidance of the flock. This article explores the biblical foundations of a pastor's role and responsibilities.
Historically, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has held a traditional view regarding the role of the pastor, which is that it should be occupied by men. This stance is rooted in their interpretation of biblical teachings and is reflected in the Baptist Faith and Message, the SBC’s statement of faith. The SBC has consistently maintained that the office of pastor/elder is limited to qualified men, as they believe this is taught in the Bible.
1. Shepherd of the Flock. The Bible consistently portrays pastors as shepherds. In Genesis 29:9, Jacob refers to himself as a shepherd when he meets Rachel at the well. Similarly, pastors are called to shepherd God's people. 1 Peter 5:2 explicitly states, "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care." This role involves nurturing, protecting, and leading the congregation.
2. Teacher of God's Word. Pastors are also referred to as teachers. In Matthew 23:10, Jesus emphasizes that there is only one Teacher — the Messiah. However, pastors serve as vessels through which God's Word is imparted to the congregation. Their responsibility includes teaching sound doctrine, explaining Scripture, and equipping believers for spiritual growth.
3. Leadership and Oversight. In the New Testament, pastors are called "elders" (Greek: presbuteros) and "overseers" (Greek: episkopos). These terms emphasize their leadership role. 1 Timothy 3:1-7 outlines the qualifications for overseers, emphasizing character, integrity, and wisdom. Pastors lead by example, providing spiritual direction and vision for the church.
4. Servant Leadership. Jesus modeled servant leadership, washing His disciples' feet and prioritizing others' needs. Pastors are called to emulate this humility. Mark 10:45 states, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve." Pastors serve the congregation through pastoral care, counseling, and meeting practical needs.
5. Preaching and Proclaiming the Gospel. A central aspect of a pastor's role is preaching the Word of God. 2 Timothy 4:2 exhorts pastors to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season." Through sermons, pastors proclaim the gospel, challenge believers, and call sinners to repentance. Their preaching should be faithful, relevant, and transformative.
6. Spiritual Guidance and Discipleship. Pastors provide spiritual guidance to individuals and families. They counsel, pray, and offer biblical wisdom. Hebrews 13:17 encourages believers to submit to their leaders, recognizing their responsibility to watch over souls. Additionally, pastors engage in discipleship, nurturing believers toward maturity in Christ.
7. Mediators and Intercessors. Pastors serve as mediators between God and the congregation. They lead corporate prayers, interceding for the needs of the church. James 5:14-15 highlights the role of elders in praying for the sick. Pastors also discern God's will, seeking His guidance for the church.
What about Women?
Southern Baptists often refer to specific passages in the Bible to support the view that only men should fill pastoral roles. The main biblical texts cited include:
1 Timothy 3:1-2: This passage is part of a section that outlines the qualifications for overseers, or elders, and uses male pronouns. It states, “Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Therefore, an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach…”
Titus 1:5-9: Similar to 1 Timothy, this passage lists qualifications for elders and uses male pronouns.
1 Timothy 2:12: This verse is often interpreted to mean that women should not teach or assume authority over men in the church. It says, “I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”
These passages are interpreted within a theological framework known as complementarianism, which holds that men and women have different but complementary roles and responsibilities in marriage, family life, and religious leadership,
It’s important to note that interpretations of these passages can vary, and some denominations and theologians support women in pastoral roles, citing other passages and theological arguments. The debate within the Southern Baptist Convention and among other Christian groups continues, with discussions focusing on scriptural interpretation and the role of tradition in church practices.
Summary
A pastor's role encompasses shepherding, teaching, leading, serving, preaching, guiding, and interceding. It is a sacred calling that requires humility, integrity, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. As congregations honor and support their pastors, they contribute to the health and vitality of the church.
Pastors are called to faithfully fulfill their God-given roles, pointing people to Jesus the Chief Shepherd — and nurturing vibrant communities of faith.