As you know, there are different ways to handle pulpit supply. Some DOMs post the list of preachers who have told them that they are available to preach on the association website and/or send that list to pastors and churches who ask for pulpit supply.
While that takes minimal effort, I believe it is not protecting and caring for our pastors and churches as we seek to “shepherd” those God has entrusted to our care, as much as it depends on us. I am reminded of Paul’s statement in 2 Cor. 11:28, “Not to mention other things, there is the daily pressure on me; my concern for all the churches.” (CSB)
While that takes minimal effort, I believe it is not protecting and caring for our pastors and churches as we seek to “shepherd” those God has entrusted to our care, as much as it depends on us. I am reminded of Paul’s statement in 2 Cor. 11:28, “Not to mention other things, there is the daily pressure on me; my concern for all the churches.” (CSB)
I want to constantly and consistently be in prayer for and concerned about assisting and protecting my churches as Paul did his. I do have a Pulpit Supply/Interim Pastor List with over 20 names on it. The list includes the preacher’s name, approximate age by decade, where he is a member, his current (or past) vocation, and his cell number. But I generally do not share it, unless a Pastor insists on seeing the whole list. Instead, when I get a call or an email from a Pastor requesting pulpit supply, I pray about who would best meet the needs of the congregation as well as which preacher would be most encouraged in his ministry to fill that pulpit that day. I consider it a two-way street. I try to alternate using different preachers, but the most important thing is to pray for the right “fit.”
I have seen the Lord really minister to a preacher who had not preached in a while. I have also seen a church be greatly ministered to by the “right” preacher at the “right” time.
This process is not that time consuming, but I believe it honors the Lord and assists churches and pastors/preachers more than the typical way of handling pulpit supply.
Do you have another way that has served you and your churches well? If so, I would like to hear it.
To the praise of His glory,
Ray
Pr. 3:5-6
Quotable Quote: Strategy trumps intention every time. Carey Nieuwhof’s blog, 12.29.17
I have seen the Lord really minister to a preacher who had not preached in a while. I have also seen a church be greatly ministered to by the “right” preacher at the “right” time.
This process is not that time consuming, but I believe it honors the Lord and assists churches and pastors/preachers more than the typical way of handling pulpit supply.
Do you have another way that has served you and your churches well? If so, I would like to hear it.
To the praise of His glory,
Ray
Pr. 3:5-6
Quotable Quote: Strategy trumps intention every time. Carey Nieuwhof’s blog, 12.29.17
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