The Value of Pastors: A Biblical Perspective

I want to address a concern that has been on my heart for some time. This is not about placing blame on any individual, but rather on society as a whole for missing an important opportunity. The topic is the value of pastors. Before you stop reading, I encourage you to reflect on this issue—not with worldly skepticism, but with an open heart guided by Scripture.

First and foremost, pastors as individuals are of equal value to everyone else in the church of God. However, the God-called position of pastor carries a special anointing that no one else in a congregation possesses. This is not about the title—many bear the title without the anointing from God. Instead, I am discussing the unique spiritual value of having an anointed pastor.

Someone might ask how they could be missing out on the value of a pastor. Let’s explore some biblical principles to determine whether you are maximizing the benefits of this God-ordained role. Your attitude toward these points will reveal much.

A Qualified Pastor

The first step is ensuring you are under the leadership of a qualified pastor. The Bible gives clear qualifications for this role:

Are they a blameless man, proven and not a novice, the husband of one wife—a wife who is saved and faithful in all things, without slander, sober-minded, and without children accused of unruly behavior? Is the pastor patient, not prone to debating and arguing, and of a good report among others? Does he hold firmly to the faith? If your pastor does not meet these qualifications, it may be time to seek a new shepherd—one truly called and anointed by God.

Counsel and Guidance

Do you turn to your pastor for counsel and advice? Many today look to worldly psychiatrists and psychologists, which is not biblical. Consider King Saul, who sought guidance from a woman in Endor who was not godly, leading to his downfall (1 Samuel 28:7-20, KJV). A pastor seeks God’s will on your behalf, offering spiritual guidance rooted in the Word. By seeking guidance through forbidden means, Saul demonstrated a lack of trust in God. Instead of repenting and seeking God’s mercy, Saul turned to worldly practices, showing his disobedience and spiritual desperation. This act further confirmed that Saul had rejected God’s authority.

"Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety" (Proverbs 11:14, KJV). A pastor helps us hear God’s voice, whereas secular guidance often reinforces self-reliance—a path that leads away from God.

Divine Healing

It seems many believers today shy away from divine healing or from calling on the pastor and ministry for prayer. They ask for prayer for surgeries but neglect to seek God’s guidance and healing power prior to these decisions during illness. Scripture reminds us of the importance of seeking spiritual help: "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick" (James 5:14-15, KJV). Pastors carry a God-given gift for laying on of hands and effectual prayer. Their presence is not a bedside nuisance but a blessing, bringing divine assistance in times of need.

Supporting Pastors

Pastors should not have to work outside their ministry. Like the apostles, they need resources to focus entirely on the Lord’s work. "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine" (1 Timothy 5:17, KJV).

A pastor’s role includes attending special meetings, revivals, and addressing spiritual needs as they arise. There are things God accomplishes through a pastor at different events that will not occur though any other means. Pastors must be financially free to preach and support other meetings across the nation. Congregations that truly value their pastor will make personal sacrifices—selling possessions, doubling tithe, cutting unnecessary expenses, or reallocating resources—to ensure their pastor can dedicate themselves fully to his calling. Without a full time pastor, church growth and sustainability will only be a fraction of what God wants. This is an act of faith that honors God.

Key Takeaway

Many congregations will never reach their full potential—and some may wither away—if they fail to ordain and support qualified, God-anointed pastors. These pastors provide essential counsel, prayer, and spiritual leadership. If a congregation cannot financially and spiritually uphold their pastor, they undervalue one of the most vital roles in the body of Christ. How much do you value the position of pastor that God has provided you? Are you hiding this talent away or fully investing in it?

I ask you to prayerfully consider whether you are fully appreciating and supporting the God-appointed position of pastor. By doing so, you align yourselves with God’s design and open the door for His blessings upon your congregation.