Biblical Principles for Pastoral Stewardship
1 Timothy 3:1-7:
- Qualifications for Overseers (Pastors):
- Blameless, faithful, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness or violence, gentle, not quarrelsome, not greedy.
- Manager of his own household, having his children in submission with all dignity.
Titus 1:5-9:
- Qualifications for Elders (Pastors):
- Blameless, husband of one wife, children who believe and are not accused of debauchery or rebellion.
- Holding fast to the faithful word as he has been taught, in order to be able to exhort with sound doctrine and refute those who contradict.
1 Peter 5:1-4:
- Duties of Elders (Pastors):
- Shepherd the flock of God, not as domineering masters, but as examples to the flock.
- Feed the flock with the word of God, encouraging and setting an example.
- Exercise oversight, not by constraint but willingly, according to God's will, not for shameful gain but eagerly.
Stewardship Responsibilities:
- Spiritual Leadership: Preaching, teaching, counseling, and guiding the congregation in faith and practice.
- Administration: Managing church finances, operations, and programs.
- Evangelism: Reaching out to the community with the gospel message.
- Discipleship: Nurturing and mentoring believers in their spiritual growth.
- Pastoral Care: Providing support, comfort, and guidance to individuals and families within the congregation.
- Accountability: Being accountable to God, the congregation, and other church leaders for the use of resources and the fulfillment of responsibilities.
Key Principles:
- Pastors are stewards of the flock of God.
- They must model integrity, faithfulness, and competence in all areas of their life.
- They are responsible for ensuring the health, growth, and unity of the congregation.
- They must lead with humility, compassion, and a servant's heart.
- They must be faithful to God's word and apply it to their own lives and ministry.