Consider Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Take particular note of the word "pastors", what is this that would distinguish the role from any other? The term "pastor" (poimen) stresses certain tasks and manners in which the the overseer (elder, bishop) goes about accomplishing the role of leading the church. He is given the responsibility of continually, tenderly, and diligently watching, guiding, protecting, and providing for the flock of God. Christ, our chief shepherd, being the model for the undershepherd.
Let me offer you a definition for the term that may give even more insight to the role of the Pastor. Pastor: a shepherd, one who tends or herds flocks; used metaphorically of Christian "pastors". (Acts 20:28)
Pastors have been given the duties of teaching, preaching, counseling, visiting, having the knowledge of, warning and protecting the congregation (flock) from false teachers.
As Paul so wonderfully and concisely stated, it is with the goal of maturing the saints for the work of the ministry and fitly framing the body until He comes.
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