I had a church ask recently if I had anything related to the role of pastors in the church. He found this to be helpful, so I thought I’d share it with you. Here’s a document I pulled together a number of years ago to help determine if someone was qualified to be a pastor or elder.
Relationship with Christ – I Tim. 3:6, I Tim. 5:22, I Sam. 13:14
- Is the individual a fully-devoted follower of Christ?
- Do they pursue Jesus passionately?
- Are they recent converts or have they had time to prove their faith is true?
Character – I Tim. 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9
- Does the individual have a solid character?
- As examples, do they possess self-control? Are they gentle, hospitable, upright, holy, and disciplined?
Conduct – I Tim. 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9
- Are their actions reflective of someone who is fully-devoted to Christ?
- As examples, is their marriage solid? Are they a good parent to their children?
- Are they quarrelsome and overbearing? Do they have a quick temper?
Bible Knowledge – Titus 1:9, Col. 1:28-29
- Does the individual have a good knowledge of God’s Word to defend the Christian faith and encourage people to take steps in spiritual maturity?
- Could the person identify false doctrine?
- Note that I Tim. 5:17 suggests that not all elders are preachers and teachers.
Sense of Responsibility – Acts 20:28, Heb. 13:17
- Does the person reflect a concern for the spiritual well-being of the entire church, “all the flock”, or just ministries or sub-ministries within the church?
- Is there an appreciation for the responsibility and accountability God has given the individual to watch over the entire church?
Heart for People – Acts 20:28, I Pet. 5:2, Ez. 34
- Does the person reflect a concern for helping lost people find Jesus?
- Does their heart beat fast when discussing ministry opportunities to reach people who haven’t heard about Christ?
Calling – I Pet. 5:2, Gal. 1:1, Eph. 1:1
- Does the individual consider this to be an appointment from God or from men?
- Is there a clear sense that this is God’s calling? Is it God’s will?
