The Greek word for Pastor is poimen which means "one who tends sheep or cares for flocks" (read 1 Peter 5: 1-4; John 21: 15 -17). But this word is used only in Ephesians 4: 11. Elsewhere in the New Testament, other words are used: "Shepherd", "Elder" and "Overseer". This is significant, to indicate that a comparison of these ministries should be made. A Pastor is not simply a leader presiding over a local church, but has a Body-wide expression of ministry. As one of the five-fold ministry, a Pastor is, in present terminology, more accurately a "Pastor of Pastors" or a "Pastor of Elders" beyond the local body. A Pastor's emphasis in ministry is in relationship networking.

The Ministry of an Elder An Elder is not a particular type of ministry, but rather is a leader in the Body (1 Peter 5: 1; 2 John 1; 3 John 1). "To the elders among you...Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers..." 1 Peter 5: 2 (also Acts 20: 17, 28-31). The word "Elder" - presbuteros - refers to any leadership ministry. An Elder may be one of the five or an "Overseer" - episkopos - over a local church. But whether a person is a Pastor (one of the five-fold ministry) or an overseeing Elder (in charge of a local body), both are called to be Shepherds. Following the example of the Chief Shepherd (John 10: 1-16), a Shepherd's ministry is to feed (verse 9); protect (verse 12), guide (verses 3-4) and love (verse 15) the sheep.

More information regarding this session will be posted shortly.