Does the Bible say anything about the role of evangelism/outreach pastor?

what does the bible say?

Although the Bible does not specifically address evangelism/outreach pastors, it does give qualifications for anyone in an elder or pastoral position in places like 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:9. Moreover, 1 Peter 5:1-4 communicates pastors must “shepherd the flock of God that is among you” (verse 2), “being examples to the flock” (verse 3). In other words, all pastors must serve as a shepherd to the people they lead and are expected to live as Christ-like examples. Evangelism or outreach pastors can also join efforts with other leadership in the church to “…grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love" (Ephesians 4:16). They can also promote unity, growth in knowledge, and maturity (Ephesians 4:13).

from the old testament

• The role of evangelism or outreach pastor is not mentioned in the Old Testament.

from the new testament

• Just as with any pastoral position, evangelism/outreach pastors should strive to promote “…the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:13).
• Godly attributes culminate in a church when it works together to reach its community and beyond (Ephesians 4:16). An evangelism/outreach pastor can have a big impact on these ministry efforts.
• The qualifications in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 include many aspects, but focus on the areas of character and service. The first main area is character. The elder is to be “above reproach” (1 Timothy 3:2), an overall character trait that encompasses many of the others listed by Paul. A second area includes family relationships. If married, the pastor is to be known as a “one woman man” and must be known for leading his family well.
• The third area is the ability to teach and defend against false teaching. Though an outreach pastor may not preach weekly sermons, he must be able to teach to some degree and defend against inaccurate teachings.
• When referring to qualifications for a pastor, Titus 1:9 says: “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” An evangelism/outreach pastor should accurately teach Scripture and correct false teachings.
• 1 Peter 5:1-4 says: “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

implications for today

Many larger churches have a specific pastor for evangelism or outreach. What does the Bible say about this role? Ephesians 4:11-12 offers an important foundation for those who serve in this way: “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” The goal of a person who leads in evangelism is not only to evangelize, but also to equip other believers for serving Christ. Seen this way, the outreach pastor will focus much time on training church members to share their faith with unbelievers. This can include evangelism education, church events, local outreach opportunities, and mission trips. Through example, education, and experience, church members can grow in their ability and confidence to share the gospel with others in a variety of contexts. A consideration for the outreach pastor involves the biblical qualifications to serve as a pastor or elder. If a local church’s outreach leader is a pastoral role, it is important to consider the qualifications presented in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, and 1 Peter 5:1-4.

Recap

understand

• The Bible does not name an “evangelism/outreach pastor,” but the same qualifications for elder applies.
• An outreach pastor functions as a shepherd-leader who equips the church to share the gospel.
• The focus is not only evangelizing personally but training and unifying believers for gospel ministry.

reflect

• How are you using your gifts to equip others to share the gospel in your community?
• How do you model Christlike shepherding in your interactions with others?
• How is evangelism or outreach a part of your life?

engage

• Why would a church consider having an evangelism or outreach pastor?
• Why is it important for an evangelism/outreach pastor to maintain the same requirements as any pastor?
• How does Ephesians 4:11-16 shape our understanding of team-based church leadership?