Bible Question:

I would like to know how a church can function without bylaws? Our pastor has no idea of how to be a leader. He has asked ministers to leave the church because the minister and the pastor don't see eye to eye. Also, our pastor was not elected as a choice from the pastoral search committee. His mother-in-law nominated him and the majority ruled. Our pastor is not doing as God states in Matthew 20. Our pastor has now stated that any minister who was interviewed for pastor by the pastor search committee can not preach at our church at any time. Is this a Christian attitude of forgiveness? Those ministers did nothing wrong. They were seeking leadership as he was. He stated that none of the pastors can preach at our church, not just a selection, but none of them. He is not an effective leader and our church is suffering. We need some help. The deacons don't know and understand. Please help us... The sheep are going astray.

Bible Answer:

First, you may be interested in several studies at this website that describe what godly biblical leadership should be like. The major study is called, “Recovering The Pattern of Church Leadership.” It provides a great overview of biblical leadership and sets the tone for godly leadership. Then there are two Powerpoint files which should be used with the document. They are called “God’s Design For The Church.” They explain the qualifications for elders, which includes pastors, as explained in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.

If your statements are accurate, your problem is not new. There are many Christian churches which suffer from ungodly leadership. Many have brought the world into the church and they want to run the church like the community Little League or a local business. Yet, it is important to remember that God wants you to forgive the man. God desires godly leaders and godly, submissive saints in the church. That does not mean, however, that you should accept what is happening. I have assumed your statements are accurate.

Conclusion:

Read the documents and also verify that your current statements are correct. If so, someone needs to go to the pastor and lovingly help him understand where he is wrong. The most important thing you can do is to pray for your pastor, his family, and be sure your own attitude is godly and forgiving. God does not honor gossip and hateful comments. Gal. 6:1 tell us how we are to respond even to pastors who may have something to learn.

Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. (NASB) Gal. 6:1