What Happens When Shepherds Suffer?

"The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching"—I Tim. 5:17

Why do pastors suffer in the pastorate today?

• Most laity do not recognize the pain and suffering of their pastors.
• Pastors are expected to minister to people in their pain. When the pastor is in pain, few people respond with a caring attitude. In most respects, congregations do not understand pastoral pain.
• There is a destruction of a precious human resource in the church.

What are some of the causes of pain that our pastors experience?

• Undue and unfair criticism.
• Unnecessary limitations.
• Unfair allegations.
• Unfounded accusations.
• Unbelievable expectations.
• Unfair financial packages.

What are some reactions to the pain and suffering?

• Some accept their suffering as part of God’s plan.
• Many pastors remain in their hard situation, having no retreat, no alternatives.
• Some make a lateral move; few move upward.
• Later in life the moves are backward, back through the same discouraging situations as before, bearing the same burdens, having wounds reopened.
• Some quit the ministry.
• A few drop out of church.

What are some of the important problems facing pastors?

• The lack of time to fulfill responsibilities.
• The lack of congregational cooperation.
• Inadequate accountability system.
• Inadequate support system.
• Endless battles with people in the congregation.

Assumptions

1. Some suffering is inevitable, a necessary part of life. This suffering may strengthen the life of the pastor and family (1 Peter 5:10).

2. If pastors are to receive the care they need, it should come from those they serve.

3. Pastors and congregations alike deserve human understanding.

4. Pastors are professional caregivers, but they do not know where to get care.

5. Biblical churches do not always treat their pastor in a biblical way. "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" (Gal. 6:2).

6. Churches do not recognize their pastors as human—people with real needs. Many lay people are oblivious to the humanity of the pastor.

7. Most church problems leading to conflicts are initiated and exacerbated by a disgruntled person in the congregation.