Can You Hear Me Now?

In your opinion, is it best for a church to have an annual call for the Pastor or have an indefinite call for the Pastor? (Personally, I have been a member, at one time or another, of churches that have had the yearly call and others that called a Pastor on an indefinite basis.) What advantages would one method offer over the other method? Does one present more stability or instability? Should churches ever change this method or continue with the same method until the next Pastor is called? So, go ahead, give me your thoughts, and let's back it up with Scripture when needed!

Eight Is Enough?

On the previous post, a comment was made about a plurality of elders. While we see this practice in the New Testament, what wisdom and insight is available to us today concerning this issue? Would there be a reason to have a plurality of elders or could/should a church have a single elder? Are we following the scriptural pattern when most churches have one elder, or are we violating scripture? Once again, since this affects so many of us ministers, let's remember one thing - even if we disagree on this issue, we are still brothers in Christ and on the same team! Now, let the debate begin!

What's The Problem?

(Disclaimer: The following question/discussion/comment is not meant to deal with any particular church, minister, or individual. It is for any of us to help discuss issues that may or may not be affecting those around us. This topic (and blog) is open to all Pastors, Ministers, and Lay People who read this blog.)

What do you think is the biggest problem that Pastors/Ministers face in their ministry and personally? Is there one problem/issue or are there many? Do you think there are things that are worse than others, and does it depend on your stage of life/ministry?

I received a suggestion that we cover some topics such as this, so let's discuss this with sincerity and honesty.

5 Ways You're Different From Joel Osteen (and other megachurch pastors)

1. They see themselves more as teachers and directional leaders than as pastors.
2. Their gift is leadership.
3. They have secular work experience.
4. They admit little conflict, high satisfaction.
5. They don't think about quitting.

(Taken from Leadership Journal - Fall 2009 issue)

The Pastor's Friend

The following article was printed in the Landmark Baptist. I thought it was a good article for all of us to read. And let me say, I thank God that I have a church who loves their pastor!

(From the April 2009 issue)
A good pastor is a best friend to his church members, but sometimes the favor is not returned. Church members mean well - they really like their pastor - they are just too busy with their own lives to think about doing anything to help him out.
If a pastor is to be shown the appreciation that is due every dedicated man of God, some church member must become the "pastor's friend." The congregation as a whole will not think to give him a needed raise in salary. When the "pastor's friend" brings it up, everyone else will think, "Sure he needs a raise; why didn't I think of that?"
It will be the "pastor's friend" who suggests a special service on Pastor Appreciation Day. The "pastor's friend" will know his birthday, and his wife's, and his children's. The "pastor's friend" will remember how many years he has been in the ministry and help plan a special day to celebrate the day marking his call to the ministry.
The "pastor's friend" will look for ways to lighten his workload. And there are many ways to do so.
Every church must have a member who is the "pastor's friend," or else the pastor will probably be taken for granted. Good pastors are not too concerned about money or praise. But it means a lot to God's man to just know that he is appreciated and respected.
Who is the "pastor's friend" in YOUR church?