What are pastors for?

Have you ever wondered, “What are pastors for?” It would be a fascinating survey question! Perhaps the most
significant answer Paul gives is “to prepare God's people for works of service” (Eph 4:11f). And besides
giving pastors (and other leaders, see v. 11) to churches, Jesus also gives grace-gifts to all church members (v.
7). The job of pastors (and other leaders), then, would seem to be to teach, encourage and help everyone to use their gifts. Basically, we are all in ministry together, and Paul goes on to say that this is how we grow toward maturity in Christ. Moreover, everyone’s grace-gifting is also important as we look to the future and ask what does God have in mind for us? As Paul Stevens says, “The special mix of spiritual gifts and burdens in each local church is God's way of indicating what their agenda for mission should be. When several members come together in a mission, the whole church may be called to embrace it.”