Bible Dictionaries

Holman Bible Dictionary

Pastor

1. KJV translation of Hebrew term for shepherd in Jeremiah 2:8; Jeremiah 3:15; Jeremiah 10:21; Jeremiah 12:10; Jeremiah 22:22; Jeremiah 23:1-2 ). Modern translations generally substituted shepherd for pastor except at Jeremiah 2:8 (leader, NIV; ruler, NAS, NRSV). 2. Pastor translates the Greek term poimen (shepherd) only at Ephesians 4:11 . The background of the term lies in the biblical image of the people of God as God's flock (Jeremiah 23:1-4; Ezekiel 34:1-16; Luke 12:32; John 10:16 ). Pastoral ministry is closely associated with teaching (Ephesians 4:11 ) as God's gift to the church. Such ministry fulfills its God-ordained purpose when it trains church members to be mature in faith and equipped for ministry and unifies the church in Christian faith and knowledge (Ephesians 4:12-13 ). Self-promotion and political divisiveness run counter to the biblical ideal for pastoral ministry. In laying down His life for His sheep (John 10:11 ,John 10:11,10:15 ), Christ set the standard for pastoral ministry that goes beyond words to deeds. His sheep recognize His voice as a trustworthy guide (John 10:3-4 ). Pastoral ministry is an expression of love for Christ (John 21:15-17 ).