We Are FOR Pastors

Because Heritage Family Church teaches and practices biblical eldership, someone might jump to the conclusion that we are somehow opposed to pastors and the work they are doing.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

We believe that the scriptural pattern favors a plurality of elders/pastors/overseers (these are clearly the same office in the New Testament ... see 1 Peter 5:1-2, Acts 20:17,28).

But wherever men are doing the work of a pastor--whether as part of a plural eldership or not--those men and their work are worthy of honor and prayerful support.



Craig sends along the following excellent statements, clarifying our position in regard to pastors. I'm sure these would express the unanimous view of our church.

1. We believe that God calls and raises up certain men to be shepherds (pastors) or overseers of local churches and that this is a biblical calling.

2. We believe that this calling of shepherd (pastor) or overseer can be full time or part time.

3. We believe that godly shepherds (pastors) and overseers of local churches serve a vital role to strengthen and edify the body of Christ and deserve full support and honor from the body of Christ.

4. We believe that in certain situations where a brother is called into full time service either as a shepherd, minister, or missionary, he may be supported financially.

5. While we do not believe that the "one man pastor" organizational structure is the scriptural pattern, we fully support and honor all godly pastors that serve the body of Christ.

To what Craig has said, I'll add this:

If only one pastor/elder/overseer is recognized in a particular church (even though as a permanent arrangement this is neither ideal nor scriptural), that brother is worthy of the respect and godly submission of the saints.

"And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake." (1 Thess.5:12-13)