How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

I've heard it said for decades (in certain orgs) that a pastor should not get close to the "saints." I've been around long enough, (Sr. pastor for 25yrs) to see the chasm this philosophy creates. It makes an almost untouchable ministry. It sets the ministry up so high that hardly anyone can get there. It makes the ministry a "caste" to itself. It creates "ministry only" seating and preferred perks. It creates an entitlement mentality. It promotes the ministry preaching one thing and then when they're out of town, doing another. In some circles, the pastor would NEVER even consider taking out a family for dinner or inviting them over for some laughs.

Why do pastors NEED a place only for themselves that the members never get to? Is it maybe, just maybe because they don't love the sheep as much as they portray that they do? (food for thought)

If the pastor is isolated to whatever degree, how in the world can he replicate himself? Oh wait, maybe he does.......... in the ministers he raises up. He raises them up to do the same thing!

And if someone can marry into the pastors family.............Lord have mercy, they've hit the lottery!!!! They "escaped" the lower caste!!

The greatest compliment I think I have ever received as a pastor was that I "smelled" like the sheep. Pastors should desire to create an atmosphere of unconditional love and acceptance and accesability which can be imparted to the rest of the church. What could happen with an "army" of people like that in a community?

Just some rambling thoughts!

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

How close should a saint get to the Pastor?

To me it all depends on the relationship/gender/reputation and many other things...

I would be respectful and greatful as a pastor.

I would also be very careful as well.

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

Familiarity breeds disrespect and discontent.

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

Especially if the pastor got issues.

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

But is the pastor walks by you and continues to look at his shoes.

Trip the poor guy, because he needs to be friendly....

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

Familiarity let's the sheep know that the pastor is just as human as they are. And for my part it breeds understanding and respect. We are all in this boat together.

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

It appears that way, doesn't it? It promotes a dichotomy within the body of Christ which shouldn't be there. How does this enter the picture? Why would they preach one thing and do another?

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

It is a mind boggling thing that this question is even asked.

It says a ton about how much higher above the rest the average pastor feels these days.

You make some excellent points MOW...

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

Just wanted to add that I think your comments are very good...

Re: How close should a pastor get to the members?
 

I have seen both sides, I got close then got burned badly, yet I agree with the clergy and lay person separation as being unscriptural and doesn't produce true discipleship.

So I guesss somewhere in the middle.