In the sports world, there are those times when a coach gets the chance to play in the game, even while coaching. It’s a good example of the mindset a pastor must have to be successful. Even though your role involves a lot of leadership (coach), you’re still and will always be a servant within the body of Christ (player)
One of the healthiest pictures of pastoral leadership is that of a shepherd who serves alongside the people, not above them. Pastor, you are called to lead, yes, but never from a distance. Biblical leadership is not built on hierarchy or status. It is built on an example, the example of Jesus.
A pastor not only gives direction, but he also serves among the people of God. You are helping others fulfill their God-given callings while faithfully serving in your own. That means there are moments you are guiding, moments you are equipping, and moments you are right in the middle of the work with everyone else. Every moment is a “discipleship moment”.
We see this clearly in the life of Jesus. He is our example.
John 13:5 (NKJV) “After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.”
When no one took the lead in a very menial task, Jesus did. It needed to be done. Rather than scold the disciples or get upset with them, Jesus served them. What a model to follow!
Pastors do not climb ladders in the kingdom, even though that seems to be the prevailing model of leadership practiced today. This is an area where the world’s system has invaded the church! Listen, we don’t outgrow serving. There is never a point where we no longer need to be among the flock, serving and loving them. Jesus taught us clearly that the way up is down, and the way forward is through humility.
Mark 9:35 (NKJV) “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.”
Pastoral authority is strengthened, not weakened, when people see their pastor willing to serve, to help, and involved in ordinary daily tasks with joy. Your willingness to serve alongside others teaches far more than any position or title ever could. Trust is built by the pastor who serves among the flock.
This is especially important in a collaborative team environment. People serve best when they know their pastor understands the work and values their commitment. A pastor who serves with his people communicates something powerful without saying a word: we are in this together.
1 Peter 4:10–11 (NKJV) says, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God… that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.”
Every gift and role matters. And your role as a pastor includes helping others use what God has entrusted to them while continuing to use what He has entrusted to you faithfully.
Pastor, never underestimate the impact of your daily example. People are watching how you treat others, how you serve, and how you handle responsibility. When you lead with humility and remain actively engaged, you reflect the heart of Jesus in a way that is deeply formative for the church.
You are not called to lead from the sidelines or the grandstands. You are called to lead from among the people.
As we have been taught for many years, we are not above anyone, but among them. Don’t let pride ruin you. Serve!
Adapted from the book, Sure and Steady by Pastor Ed Taylor. Chapter 21
