Pastor

CHARACTERISTICS OF A PASTORAL CANDIDATE SPIRITUAL AND DOCTRINAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Biblically grounded -- holding to the authority, inerrancy, and sufficiency of Scripture.
• Doctrinally sound -- faithfully preaching and teaching the word of God without compromise.
• Christ-centered -- exalting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior in all preaching and ministry.
• Spirit-filled -- relies on the Holy Spirit for guidance, conviction, and power in preaching and living.
• Prayerful -- demonstrates dependence on God through a consistent prayer life.
• Feels called by God.

• Respectable, of good reputation, spiritually disciplined, and a sound teacher.
• Moral purity -- faithful in marriage, upright in conduct.
• Humble servant -- models humility, recognizing ministry as service, not self-exaltation, generous and hospitable to others, and loves what is good and truthful.
• Self-controlled and temperate -- patient, not quick to anger, deliberate in decisions.
• Trustworthy, honest, dependable, and consistent in both private and public life.

• Expository preacher empowered by the Holy Spirit who explains Scripture faithfully, verse by verse and in context.
• Clear communicator -- teaches with clarity and conviction so that all can understand.
• Doctrinal guard -- protects the congregation from false teaching and can exhort and refute false doctrine.
• Practical application -- connects biblical truth with everyday life for spiritual growth.
• Encourager and corrector -- balances grace and truth, exhorting believers while also correcting in love.

• Has a shepherd's heart -- loves and cares for the flock, following the model of the Good Shepherd.
• Approachable -- listens to and counsels church members with patience and compassion.
• Has the ability to meet people at every stage of their faith journey, offering biblical guidance, encouragement, and wise counsel with grace and truth, taking into consideration their unique circumstances to help them grow in spiritual maturity and closer relationship with Christ.
• Equip others -- has the ability to train others and empower believers for ministry.
• Disciple-maker -- invests in developing spiritually mature followers of Christ.

• Represents Christ faithfully in the church and the broader community to avoid bringing disgrace to the ministry.

• Faithful to the mission -- keeps the church focused on evangelism, discipleship, and missions.
• Resilient under trial -- endures hardship and opposition with steadfast faith.
• Committed to unity -- promotes harmony and reconciliation within the body of Christ.
• Steward of resources -- manages church resources wisely and transparently.
• Lifelong learner -- continues to grow in Scripture, theology, and godly wisdom.