Pastors

The role of a pastor is deeply rooted in the biblical imagery of a shepherd. 

There are many references made to shepherding in both the Old and New Testament, which helps us to understand the roles and responsibilities of pastors:

• Shepherds watch for enemies trying to harm the flock (Acts 20:28-30).
• They intimately know and care for their sheep (John 10:11-15).
• Shepherds actively seek out and love the lost sheep (1 Peter 2:25).
• They defend and heal the wounded members of the flock (Psalm 23:3-5).
• Shepherds lead, guide, and provide for their sheep (Isaiah 40:10-11, Psalm 23:1-5).
• They nourish the spiritual needs of the flock through teaching and guidance (John 21:16).

In essence, the biblical role of a pastor mirrors that of a shepherd, embodying qualities of protection, provision, care, and leadership.

At Unite180, we firmly believe that the term “pastor” refers to a function, and not a title. 

Our pastors oversee approximately 250 to 400 people, embodying the principle of serving rather than being served. Contrary to popular belief, not all of our pastors preach.  Instead, their pastoral duties extend beyond preaching on Sundays.  

Through counseling efforts, our pastors are deeply involved in the life of our church community. They volunteer at all Unite180 events, taking on prominent leadership roles in the administration of these events. They exemplify humility and servant leadership, understanding that pastors are not celebrities but servants with a heart for God and His people. They also officiate the weddings of the people in their areas getting married.

Ultimately, our pastors are shepherds who emulate Christ’s love and compassion. They stand firm in the face of adversity, possess deep spiritual insight, and diligently teach and uphold the Word of God. 

All the pastors in Unite180 serve their areas under the leadership of Senior Pastors David and Chanelle who bears the ultimate responsibility for Unite180, entrusted to them by God.

In Unite180, the journey to becoming a pastor follows a structured progression within our church. Individuals typically start as uGroup leaders, then advance to area leaders before being considered for the role of pastor. All our pastors followed this process, reflecting a commitment to develop leaders from within.

Pastors are not elected as part of a democratic voting process.  Instead, they are appointed by God and recognised by Pastors David and Chanelle from the area leader group. According to biblical standards (1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9), pastors are expected to exhibit qualities such as moral integrity, healthy marriages and households, hospitality, humility, and a proven track record of faithful service. Additionally, they should demonstrate a deep commitment to ministry and a genuine calling from God, as ultimately, it is Jesus who appoints pastors (Ephesians 4:11).

Therefore, the path to becoming a pastor in Unite180 is not only a matter of ambition or human decision, but a response to a divine calling and an expression of faithfulness in serving God’s kingdom.

While some pastors may be formally employed by the Unite180 office, it’s important to note that this employment is distinct from their role as pastors within the church. The majority of our pastors maintain separate professional occupations and do not receive payment from the church for their ministry services. Their commitment to pastoral duties is rooted in their calling by God, driven by a deep sense of dedication to the mission and purpose God has set before them.

The Bible teaches us that the baptism of the Holy Spirit empowers all believers for ministry, including men and women (1 Corinthians 12:11, Acts 2:17, Joel 2:28).

Throughout Scripture, we find numerous examples of women actively involved in ministry:

• Priscilla, alongside her husband Aquila, instructs and corrects Apollos in matters of faith (Acts 18:24-26).
• Phoebe is referred to as a deacon or servant of the church (Romans 16:1-2).
• Deborah serves as a prophetess, judge, and military leader in Israel, playing a crucial role in delivering Israel from oppression (Judges 4-5).
• Huldah, consulted by King Josiah’s officials to interpret the book of the law discovered in the temple (2 Kings 22:14-20, 2 Chronicles 34:22-28).
• Jesus first appeared to women after His resurrection, entrusting them with the crucial task of proclaiming His resurrection to the apostles (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18)

While the topic of women in pastoral ministry has been widely debated, we affirm the biblical precedent and the value of women’s contributions to ministry.