Document 14 · Section 5

On the shoulders of the Saints and elders

The weight that comes off the pastor does not all move to the Church Manager.

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The weight that comes off the pastor does not all move to the Church Manager. Much of it returns to the body — to the Saints in ministry and to the eldership in prayerful discernment. This is the every-member-ministry picture of Document 1 (Vision, Purpose, Commission & Mission), Chapter 9.6 made concrete.

ResponsibilityCarried byThe pastor’s limited part
Worship ministrySaintsNone operationally — preaches and prays within the gathering.
Evangelism & missionSaintsTeaches on it and participates alongside the body.
Ministry & program deliverySaintsEquips and disciples those who serve.
Discerning vision & spiritual directionEldershipContributes as one elder in prayerful discernment.
Confirming & releasing Saints into ministryEldershipShares in laying on of hands; does not decide alone.
Annual direction & the planSaints & EldershipGuides Saints to seek God for their “works prepared in advance” (Eph 2:10).
Committing the church (vote on direction, budget)SaintsTeaches and shepherds; the decision is the body’s.
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Four duties that move off the pastor
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On the shoulders of the Saints and elders
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The Church Manager and the Committee
Document 14 · Redefining the Pastor’s Role · section 6 of 9

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