The Pastor's Life and Duty
In this episode of Know and Do, we explore the biblical expectations for pastors by examining 1 Timothy 3:1–7 alongside other key passages of Scripture. While jokes often portray pastors as only working on Sundays, the Bible paints a much fuller and weightier picture of pastoral life and responsibility.
This conversation unpacks the spiritual calling of pastors—not simply as an occupation, but as a life of devotion, shepherding, leadership, and accountability before God. The episode is designed to help Christians understand how to support their pastors, help non-Christians see God’s care in establishing church leadership, and encourage pastors to faithfully uphold their calling.
I. Pastors must live differently.
A. 1 Corinthians 9:27
II. Four ways the pastor is to live differently
1. In his devotion to the Lord
a. Pursuit of holiness (1 Timothy 4:16)
b. Prayer life (Acts 6:4)
c. Example to others (1 Peter 5:3)
2. In his care for the congregation
a. Preaching and teaching (2 Timothy 4:1-2)
b. Shepherding (1 Peter 5:2)
c. Leadership (Hebrews 13:17)
d. Evangelism and missions (Matthew 28:19-20)
e. Equipping (Ephesians 4:11-12)
3. In his relationships
a. With God (Galatians 1:10)
b. With fellow leaders (1 Timothy 5:19-20)
c. With the congregation (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8)
4. In his accountability
a. Hebrews 13:17
b. 1 Peter 5:4
c. 1 Corinthians 11:1