A pastor is not over the elders. He is one among equals. He specializes in laboring in the word and doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17-18). Here we explore the terms and tasks of a pastor.
1. The terms that are used of the pastor
1a. The term elder - Titus 1:5 It is not a word that speaks of age Rather it speaks of spiritual maturity it is an Old Testament term (Numbers 11:16)
1b. The term bishop - Titus 1:7 A synonym of the word elder 1 Timothy 3:1-2 - a bishop must be blameless It is a God-given burden to be a bishop or elder Philippians 1:1 - bishops and deacons
1c. The term pastor Ephesians 4:11 - pastors and teachers The noun is used of Christ as the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4) The verb is used of overseers who are "to feed" the flock (Act 20:28)
2. The tasks associated with these terms
2a. The pastor's task is to care John 10:11-13 discusses shepherds that do not care The shepherd's task is to make sure sheep are safe This involves (Ezekiel 34) - provision (34:2) - protection (34:8) Acts 20:28-30 - protection from the wolves and error The food is the teaching of the word of God (Hebrews 5:12) The task of the sheep is to eat The pastor's task is to feed with the truth of Christ
2b. The bishop's task is to give oversight (Hebrews 13:17)
2c. The elder's task is to rule 1 Timothy 3:4-5 The term elder involves a sense of authority but never dictatorship Ruling is not bullying or domineering Ruling involves care The elder is to give direction and leadership so that your soul is not ruined and you are not damned
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