Throughout the year, many men will receive an email or phone call from a pastor search committee, inviting them to consider a church position. The role may be for lead pastor, associate pastor, or another ministry position.
Ideally, after receiving the invitation, the individual will prayerfully consider the opportunity, reflecting on questions such as:
“Is it time to make a move?”
“Is God opening a door?” and
“Is this the right time and the right place?”
The questions to consider are numerous, and the possibilities are vast. However, there are at least 11 criteria I recommend for evaluating a pastoral call. When I was prayerfully considering the call to serve as Senior Pastor of Lone Oak First Baptist Church, the Lord led me to these principles. I used them as a guide when weighing the invitation to serve in West Kentucky.
1. Convictions
Does the church’s faith and practice align with my own? Even if the church is undergoing some course corrections, it is important to evaluate its stated beliefs and the spoken positions of its leadership. If the church’s positions align with your core beliefs and understanding of God’s Word, the likelihood of fruitful ministry increases.
2. Calling
Do I sense a special calling or excitement about the possibility of serving this church? A clear sense of calling is essential. God will make it evident if this ministry opportunity is right for you.
If you do not sense this calling, it is wise to honestly withdraw your name.
3. Chemistry
Do we like the people, and do the people like us? We should not underestimate the value of chemistry with the people we will serve. Ministry is relational, and the people you serve alongside will become an integral part of your life and family.
4. Compatibility
Do we naturally fit in, and do we seem well-matched? This criterion is similar to chemistry but goes deeper. Compatibility reflects how well you (and your family) would integrate into the culture of the church and the surrounding community. It is important to consider whether your values and style align with the congregation’s and the area’s unique characteristics.
5. Capability
Do I possess the gifts necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position? Assess whether your skills, talents, and spiritual gifts are well-suited to the job. Will you be able to meet the ministry’s demands and responsibilities?
6. Capacity
Do I have the capacity to meet the demands of the position? Take time to carefully review the job description, ask about unspoken expectations, and learn what the church valued in the previous pastor. This will help you understand the role’s demands. Consider whether you can balance the demands of the position with other priorities, such as personal faith, family life, continuing education, and self-care.
7. Character
Does the character of the church’s people reflect the values I want my family to inherit? The character of the congregation will have a direct impact on your family. It is essential to ask whether the people’s character aligns with the qualities you want your family to embrace and cultivate.
8. Culture
Does the church’s culture reflect an environment in which I’ll thrive? Some pastors excel in high-pressure settings where they can be change agents and visionaries. Others thrive in environments that emphasize relationship-building rather than innovation.
Consider whether the church’s culture aligns with your personality, gifts, and ministry style.
9. Community
Do we love this community and desire to invest our lives here? Every community has its own unique characteristics. Rural communities, urban settings, and suburban areas each present their own benefits and challenges. Ask yourself if you can see yourself investing in and loving this community long-term.
10. Cost
What are the emotional, social, and financial costs of the transition for my family? Pastors are to both the Lord and their families. While God sometimes calls us to take steps that don’t make sense on paper, it is crucial to consider the costs associated with the transition.
Does your family face challenges, such as moving to a new school, dealing with health issues, or experiencing financial strain? Weigh these factors carefully.
11. Concerns
What concerns have surfaced during the interview process? Take stock of any red flags or reservations that have emerged. Be honest with yourself about what you liked and what caused concern. Where necessary, seek clarification to determine if these concerns are based on reality or mere perception. While no church is perfect, it is important to understand what you’re stepping into.
There is no foolproof formula for discerning a call to a new ministry position. However, by prayerfully considering these 11 criteria, you can make a more informed decision—one that is wise not only for you but for your family and the church you may be called to serve.
This article originally appeared at Kentucky Today.
