My Philosophy of Pastoral Ministry

I have been in some type of pastoral ministry since the age of 21. At that time, I closely identified with Timothy of the New Testament. I made the Apostle Paul’s advice to him my own. “Let no one look down on your youthfulness…” (1 Timothy 4:12 NASB). Also, I took the rest of that passage (4:12-16) as my personal philosophy of ministry. Thirty-three years later they remain my overarching principles.

1 Timothy 4:12-16 requires me as a pastor to be worthy of respect in four areas. I strive to be worthy as a person, as a pastor, as to proficiency, and as to progress.

As a person (4:12) I am to give attention to my character. I am to be foremost Christ-like in my speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

As a pastor (4:13) my primary attention is given to the Word. My text is the Bible, spiritual transformation is the goal and teaching is the process.

As to proficiency (4:14), I am constantly striving to develop my gifts, not content to rest on past performance.

As to progress (4:15-16), I want my growth to be evident. I’m not perfect and God has not brought me to perfection. I believe if the congregation sees in me humility and a desire to learn, they will do the same. We all will be the better for it.