Qualitites of A Godly Pastor

Scripture must be our guide when evaluating a young man’s desire for pastoral ministry (1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Pet. 5:1–4). This blueprint needs to then be evaluated by the young man’s desire for the work (internal calling), and then by the pastors and congregation of his local church (external calling). Although those Scripture qualities are helpful, they are not exhaustive.

So, here are 10 other characteristics I look for that I believe are very important for pastoral ministry and fall within the framework of the fruit of the spirit in a Christian’s life:

• A deep love and burden for people and their transformation
   
• A clear, personal love for Jesus 
  
  
• A warmth in personality that people respond to well 
  
  
• A unique ability to understand and explain God’s Word*** 
  
  
• An ability to emotionally engage people both public and private
  
  
• A clear communicator***
  
  
• An authentic, honest awareness of his heart and personal brokenness***
  
  
• A humble teachable spirit*** 
  
  
• A clear possession of wisdom and discernment into life and struggles 
  
  
• A strong ability to empathize to a hurting person 
  

Pastors, look for these in the future pastors in your church and consider your own character in light of these qualities.

The *** are absolutely essential!