Practicing Grace in MinistryMuestra

Grace in pastoral ministry 

Whether they are called pastors or elders, those who shepherd others provide leadership, oversight, instruction, exhortation, and comfort. They respond to others’ needs so that they can prosper spiritually. They must do all this with the same grace they have received from God. 

Shepherds are called to exemplify servanthood, rather than domination. They should not try to control people with rules, guilt, fear, coercion, or external pressure. Paul compared his ministry to that of a nursing mother or a father. Parents naturally show grace to their children. To motivate others to change, help them appreciate God’s love. 

Pastoral ministry is difficult and taxing. Pastors must study God’s Word afresh each week to craft a message people can use. This weekly grind alone is crushing; there are also endless meetings and things to pray about. Pastors are on call 24-hours a day, regardless of how tired they might be. They must not only endure but also love critical people, mentor leaders, and envision the future for their church. How can anyone do all this, except by the grace of God?

The Bible is full of accounts of people who felt inadequate but were able to lead others and accomplish their tasks with God’s help and a servant’s attitude. Our inadequacies are covered by God’s grace. 

One of a pastor’s most unpleasant tasks is dealing with those who go astray—confronting those who sin and, if necessary, subjecting them to church discipline. This must be done with love and grace. God accepts us, faults and all. Shepherds who understand the realities of the world, the flesh, and the devil will not just dismiss those who sin as unsaved (though that may be a possibility) but appeal to them on the basis of God’s love. There is no sin beyond God’s forgiveness and restoration (Rom. 5:20).

Pastors face the pressure to grow the church. Many dread answering the question, “How many people do you have?” They don’t enjoy playing the comparison game. Under grace, pastors should get their sense of significance not from numbers but from their faithfulness in ministry. Think of the church issues Paul faced: criticism, alienation, betrayal, and subterfuge, yet he did not consider his ministry a failure. He knew as he labored that God labored in and with him. 

Pastors and shepherds face extraordinary and seemingly impossible demands. They must rely on the sufficiency of God’s grace.