Why a Clear Vision Draws the Right Pastor
When a pastor is called by a church to serve, which do you think that pastor prefers? That the church relies on the pastor to set the vision and to take the lead into the future? Or that the church has already set a vision with plans for the future; and is now searching for a pastor that would like to work with that vision?
Let me tell you about conversations I’ve had with pastors who were contacted by churches that were interested in them. Many times, the pastor had asked questions such as: What vision do you have for the future? What goals do you have? How do you plan to accomplish them? When a church says, “We’re relying on you to lead us,” most pastors feel hesitant. On the other hand, when a church presents a clear vision and says, “This is who we are and where we believe God is leading us,” pastors are often drawn to that clarity and purpose.
On August 17 Connections Church will put together a vision for the future, set some goals, and consider how to carry them out. By the way, when I think of Connections Church, I picture all the people, not just the leadership. It warms a pastor’s heart if the entire congregation is involved with setting a course for the future, not just the leadership. If only the leadership is determining who we are and what we want to do, most prospective pastors hesitate to become pastor of such a church. Such a scenario seems to indicate that the church is not very united. This could lead to mission and visions changing as leadership changes.
Sometimes we may look at other churches who have a dynamic pastor and who seem to be successful. We may then draw the conclusion: We just need the right dynamic pastor to make our church thrive and grow. But that is a risky path. The congregational members then tend to neglect their own vital gifts in service to the Lord and the church. 1 Corinthians 12 describes how important every member of the church serves a vital function. “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good … Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (1 Cor. 12:7,27)
We also need to step back and remind ourselves of Matthew 16:18. Peter had taken the bold step of confessing Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, the only hope of the world. Then Jesus said, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church.” We understand that the rock Jesus references is the confession that Peter made about Jesus. And all Jesus’ followers make the same confession. Yes, Jesus is the one to build His church. But He uses all of us as His hands and feet to build His church as we boldly go forward in Him.
We as a congregation have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our church. I know giving up a Saturday morning isn’t easy, but the time we invest will be well worth it. Barb and I will be there, eager to listen and contribute; but more importantly, we look forward to hearing our thoughts and ideas. This is our opportunity to set a course together, guided by the Spirit.
John Gorter
Interim Pastor
