1 Tim 3:1-13 gives the qualification of an overseer or pastor. The Bible clearly defines the role of a pastor to shepherd, feed, guide and lead the flock to spiritual growth and service to our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Pet 5: 2-3
Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
In my recent ministry to Bacolod, Philippines, I noticed these prominent characteristics of pastors in the less developed countries as compared to the more developed countries.
These Filipino pastors prayed earnestly for the spiritual awakening in the church and nation, and they manifest servant-hood service, respect for all giving more honor to the lowly, exceptional hospitality and persistence in their constant earnest exhortation to the church to trust and obey God. And I noticed that the acronym of PASTOR describes these characteristics.
