Biblical Basis
The local church pastor is an “under-shepherd” charged with leading a portion of those who belong to Christ (1 Peter 5:2-4). All pastoral care, direction, protection and nurture find their Source in Christ, the Good Shepherd Who lays down His life for us as seen through the “I Am” statements of Christ (John 6:35; 8:12; 10:9-11, 14-15; 14:6; 15:1-5). Therefore, the local church pastor must find his or her identity and ministry passion solely in Christ Jesus and must lead the flock as much by personal example as by teaching (1 Timothy 4:11-16; Philippians 1:21; Ephesians 1:3-14). A healthy pastor does nothing out of selfish ambition or personal gain, but is compelled by the love of Christ (Philippians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 5:14), grows continuously in both skill and in the fruit of the Spirit (2 Peter 1:3-8; Galatians 5:22-23), and has a clear understanding of his or her calling before God – multiplying himself or herself through the making of disciples, co-leaders, and more pastors (2 Timothy 1:3-7; 2:1-2).