A PASTOR MUST BE A STEPHEN

In a time when the clergy is considered a vocation rather than a calling, the aspiring pastor must take heed to biblical guidelines set for the office. God's Word sets clear qualifications for the ministry. Although not a pastor, the deacon Stephen of the Book of Acts was an exemplar of true pastoral directives. A Pastor Must Be a Stephen is a study of the characteristics exhibited by Stephen in Acts 6:8-7:60. The directives of successful preaching and powerful leadership shown by this man of God must be a trademark of the contemporary pastorate. Stephen's zeal, fervor, and knowledge of biblical truth is indicative of godly fear and responsibility incumbent upon the gospel ministry. The walk of life of a pastor must be a holy convocation. The life of Stephen is a paradigm of a gospel minister.