The term “pastor” is mentioned only once in the New Testament (in Ephesians 4:11). Elsewhere, it is translated “shepherd”, and except for a reference to the Lord as “the Great Shepherd” and pastors as “overseers” (Acts 20:28). In every other case, the term “shepherd” refers to one who minds sheep in the field. His work is to ensure that they lack nothing. He rests them “in green pastures beside still waters”, and his reputation depends on how well he leads them along the paths and how well he protects and defends them (Psalm 23:1-4).
Church pastors suffer when they are forced to act as CEOs because they were not meant to manage from office suites. A pastor is by definition is pastoral, and he is at his best when caring for, leading sheep into good pastures.
In the New Testament, Elders — mature Christians — are appointed by an apostle, who works at establishing a local church. A local church that has all five-fold ministries would be an amazing one! Prophets work with apostles in setting ministries in place. If pressure is placed upon a pastor to manage rather than lead, that “body of Christ” he led will in time cease to be organic and instead become organizational.
It was not the pastor of the church at Antioch that sent forth Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, but “certain prophets and teachers” who did so after fasting and praying (Acts 13:1-3). Elders were older men in good standing.
True pastors are not easy to find, and we should value them for their arduous and often challenging ministry. The intent of this post is not to diminish pastors but rather to make a distinction between them and those who are not called to pastor the Lord’s people, and who would do better as managers.