FIVE Minutes with Phil

1 Timothy 4:6 Tell the people…

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On numerous occasions through the years, I've been a part of a Pastor Search committee. It's really quite amazing to see the longlist of qualifications in a desired pastor. I especially like this list:

A good pastor must have:

  • the strength of an ox,
  • the tenacity of a bulldog,
  • the daring of a lion,
  • the wisdom of an owl,
  • the harmlessness of a dove,
  • the industry of a beaver,
  • the gentleness of a sheep,
  • the versatility of a      chameleon.
  • the vision of an eagle,
  • the hide of a rhinoceros,
  • the perspective of a giraffe,
  • the endurance of a camel,
  • the bounce of a kangaroo,
  • the stomach of a horse,
  • the disposition of an angel,
  • the loyalty of an apostle,
  • the faithfulness of a      prophet,
  • the tenderness of a shepherd,
  • the fervency of an      evangelist,
  • the devotion of a mother,
  • the ability to work with      turkeys
  • and live on ‘chicken feed,’
  • and still he could not please      everybody!”

    • From <http://eaglesummitministry.org/index.php/qualifications-good-pastor/>

    In fact, if Jesus Himself applied for many positions, I don't think He would get the job!

    So, what is actually expected, based on Scripture? Character and skill wise, a good place to start would be the description of an overseer or elder in chapter 3. But here we get further description of what a teacher would look like: 6 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.

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    FIVE Minutes with PhilBy Phil Routly