1. What is the difference between and bi-vocational preacher and part-time preacher? There is no part-time preacher. Being in ministry is a full-time calling. It is like being a parent – there is no part-time mother or father. You are always a parent. A bi-vocational preacher is one who has a secular profession in addition to his/her ministry work (e.g. pastor, evangelist, church planter).
2. Identify at least 3 benefits of a bi-vocational preacher. i) Able to contribute more financially to the work because of the two incomes receive (i.e. one from secular job and the other income from the tithes and offering from the church. ii) Able to develop relationships with the unsaved people you work with. Pastors who do not have a second job rare have opportunities to interact with unsaved. iii) A bi-vocational pastor is less likely to be influenced by pressures associated with people in the church who has control over the finances – whether directly or indirectly. Because they are not solely dependent on the income from the church, they are able to take a stand regarding principles and beliefs found in the scripture and not compromise.
3. Give at least 2 examples of a bi-vocational preacher in the bible. The apostle Paul was a bi-vocational preacher. He build tents to support himself and the ministry in Corinth. (2 Corinthians 12:14-15). Aquila and Priscilla, who were tent makers like Paul (Acts 18:3) and taught Apollos a bible study (Acts 18:26) who were later referenced as having a church in their house (1 Corinthians 16:19).
I could be wrong on the Aquila and Priscilla answer but it lloked to me that given that they were co-workers with Paul and saw how he operated, they may be influenced to follow his approach. In any event they had a church in their house. It is likely that they were then meeting the need of their congregants as people with some means it would appear.
I enjoyed your teaching.The question of the difference between a bi-vocational preacher and a part time preacher? I don't believe a God called preacher can be part time.We are all an epistle known and read of all men,might I add every where we go the unsaved are watching and reading our lives. While it is duly noted that non working Pastors can work just as hard as bi-vocational pastors,the general public does not physically see their individual duties,unlike the working pastor people can see and respect their hard labors.Also a working pastor understands the struggles of life better because they also are living them.Another benefit they have more opportunity to witness and shine for the gospel as they are working with the unsaved. There are many bi-vocational preachers in the bible some of which are:Noah was bi-vocational Hebrews 11:7 Noah prepared an ark to the saving of his house.Elisha worked in the woods 2Kings6:1-4,Paul was a tent maker along with Aquila and Priscilla who won without Paul a Jew by the name of Apollos in Acts18:24-28.Also two of the prophets Haggai and Zachariah didn't mind getting their hands dirty building the wall at Jerusalem Ezra5:1-2.Of coarse our greatest example is our Lord Jesus called by people who knew him the carpenter the son of Mary Mark6:3
To Brother E Heron I would like to comment on your statement that you were not sure if Aquila and Priscilla were preachers.I believe they were, as you pointed out in Romans16:3-5 they had a church in their house, also they were very well learned in the word and wisdom of God to reach such a powerful preacher as Apollos in Acts18:24-28.They might not have been as prominent as Paul but they were teachers non the less.
To me a part time minister is not a reflection as to whether or not they work in a secular job but more of the mental state of the preacher. We have to realize that this is a calling and that it does not always look like every other preachers ministy. It is a unique calling that reaches to a lost world.
The bi-vocational preacher is going to have some advantages and that is that they can have more means to offer services to the church that may not have been there before. It also allows them the spiritual freedom from being dependent on a church income to prayerfully establish priciples in the church.
Bro Harwood you are so correct, Jesus was most certainly a great example of this. he was a doctor, carpenter, soup kitchen, and councelor.. this list goes on and on! What a great lesson and thought, as a bi-vocational preacher it lifts me up to see that I am not less of a minister, but follow established new testement paths!
Great teaching. There is definitely no such thing as a part-time minister. It is a lifestyle. I am a "Tri-Vocational" pastor if that is such a thing. I use to be embarrassed by that when trying to witness to people in the community, but now I have come to realize that it is the very key I have to building strong relationships with people and reaching them. It has been a blessing in disguise.
I really enjoyed this indepth presentation on full time mentality when it comes to the kingdom of God. This is a major stumbling block for young ministers that believe that going full time is the key for revivial. As pastors we that have put the hours in outreach and counseling we find out that it is the Lord's increase if we put in the time.
Bi-vocational Pastors are in the cutting edge of information and social temperature for their geographical environment. They understand trends that impact their saints and most importantly their youth. If I was going to invest in the kingdom of God I had to understand that I will have get use to the word subsidize, subsidize, subsidize. As a Bi-vocational Pastor I have become a visionary and God has repeatedly provided the resources.
I have found many examples of bi-vocational preachers, Moses was a counselor, David was a shepherd, Noah was an Ark Builder, Paul was a tent maker, Peter and John were fishermen, Luke was a physician, Mathew was a tax collector, and Jesus was a carpenter.
Three benefits of a a bi-vocational preacher is:
1. The social awareness/temperature of his geographical environment where he is pastoring.
2. Much needed Finances to finance outreach ministries and reach his mission field.
3. Develope leadership within the church and learn to delegate tasks to departmental leaders to help when he is unavailable to do so.
I dont beleive a part-time preacher exist, its all or nothing! A bi-vocational preacher is a minister that works but his passion and calling is to preach the gospel to reach souls.
Reg Harwood: You are correct it was most of the women that did lead the early home churches as we see the case in Philemon's wife Apphia, Nymphas from Laodicea, Lydia of Thyatira, and Chloe from Corinth to name a few. These women are great examples of the leadership potential in the church today.
It is vital to examine one's calling and know that if God has called you to a city, He is able to provide for you. A bi-vocational pastor has the responsibility to honor the call of God while balancing the needs of family, church, and vocation. This is a delicate balance, and takes both dedication and faith to accomplish. God has brought the individual and family to the city and will equip them to fulfill His will.
Creating boundaries for one’s own family is extremely important for the bi-vocational pastor. Due to the difficulties and constraints that are placed on one’s time, this can be one of the most neglected areas of someone in the ministry. Time demands require that the bi-vocational minister guard family time and allow his/her first priority to be the welfare and spiritual condition of them. Without their support, the bi-vocational pastor will emotionally and spiritually suffer.
Response to ppdap: I agree with you that the bi-vocational pastor may have a greater understanding of the trends that impact their saints and youth. Because of their closeness to the workplace, they have greater exposure to some of the economic and social changes that occur on the job. Such insight can be both beneficial and helpful to assist in ministering to the needs of congregation as well as provide an opportunity to reach souls in a way that may not be initially thought of had the individual not work alongside of someone in need. Thanks for sharing!
1. What is the difference between a bi-vocational preacher and a "part time preacher"?
There is really no such thing as a part time preacher unless one views themselves this way. We are called to be people of God and so also there are no part time Christians. A bi-vocational preacher must see their employment as a benefit to kingdom work. If we do not see outside vocation as a means to outreach as well as financial stability then we do a disservice to our calling by feeling that we are not as called as those primarily being paid by a church.
2. Identify 3 benefits of the bi-vocational pastor. (1) - The ability to network and interact with those living real life and facing real life issues. (2) - Having the means to help finance the work of God when a church may not be able to do it solely on its own. (3) - Having the opportunity to get further into the field of harvest beyond the church doors on a daily basis.
3. Give an example of at least two bi-vocational preachers in the Bible. (1) Noah - a preacher of righteousness who worked building an ark. not only was he consistent, proven by the ark he built, but he was successful at making sure those closest to him were saved. (2) Paul. The great apostle, church planter, preacher worked when he needed to in order to be a blessing to the local church instead of a burden.
In response to The Sanctuary - I agree that we must have the understanding to know that if God calls - He provides. i also think that we must try to notice that provision when it comes in unexpected forms and to be wise stewards of it, so we may fulfill the call.
In response to ppdap: I think the stumbling block illustration is a good one. Revival comes in many forms but having a full time position at a church is not key to any form of revival. I agree with you that it is vital to put in the time and that if we will plant and we will water, that the Lord will give the increase.
In response to part 3: I think Chase should take these three things into consideration. - What does his wife think. - Determine if he will be making a choice solely on the financial aspect of each church. - What abilities and skills does he have that will translate into secular employment if he needs to pursue that.
I've had a rough time learning how to write in a blog....Lord help me.. 3 benefits of being a Bi-vocational preacher. We support ourselves and the church plant. Our family maintains the same level of income, making it easier to support the work. Since we have our own income we are not a burden to anyone.
There really isn't a part time preacher, those of us with a job outside the church, in some cases are busier than "fulltime ministers"
Noah and Paul are the examples I like the best, of bivocational preachers. Both men supported what God called them to do, by working to produce a church. Noah only had 8 souls in his little church, but none of us would be here without his efforts!
For a long time my wife wasn't very interested in what God called me to do. However, it was a very special day to me last summer when my wife walked into the house and began discussing starting a church in a home in the town where I have always felt the call. She knew the moment she mentioned it, I was ready. But it takes both parties in a marriage, committed to this work. It would never be easy doing a church plant with one spouse objecting. Because the husband got the call, in this case, he must remember his wife is his greatest supporter. We spend as much time together as possible. I try to take her with me most of the time. I realize what we are doing may not count for offical family time, but we are enjoying being with each other even as we start this work.
Mark, I like the tri-vocational angle, I probaly fit into that catagory myself. We are remodeling a church building, I'm working 10 hours a day at the manufacturing plant, and we have a small congregation with me looking for more people to teach Bible studies to. Oh and I have three children and two precious grandbabies.
There are no "part-time" preachers. All ministry is full time. One should not view himself as "Part time" just because his main source of income is derived from a secular job. The minister must embrace the opportunities that come with being a bi-vocational.
It seems that many times, established church and home missions church, that the goal of the pastor is to try to get the church built to the point that they can go "full-time" with the church. (And I also agree with the need for full-time pastor mentality ... even when bi-vocational) But it seems too often that once the pastor is full time with the church, the growth rate diminishes. I know of one pastor who was bi-vocational as a public school teacher. The average attendance of his congregation was over 400. He maintained his secular career becuase of, as Bro. Deckard taught, he had so many more opportunitites to build relationships and make an impact in the community. Maybe we need to constantly consider our purpose. Is our goal to be full-time or to impact our communities? How can we "most effectively" be involved in expanding the Kingdom of God? (from Bro. Bernard's lesson)
Bro. O'Connell, I with you on the time and family thing! I feel probabaly one of the most vital things for the bi-vocational pastor to do is to be diligent with time management! Working from a plan can of itself remove a lot of stress from our lives. And it's also necessary to include in the plan ... family and leisure time.
I'd like to comment on the survey conducted by Focus On The Family. The point made about "Select A Flexible Job". Much of my adult life has been in full-time ministry. Occassionally, I was doing some extra work on the side and any secualr work I was involved with, I was always "self-employed." This was usually a good fit with ministry. However, since we arrived here in Columbia, I was working for a contractor and didn't have as much flexibility. Also, I was taking care of projects out of town and usually I was working alone. With this arrangement, I had income but there was absolutely no opportunity for connecting with people and building relationships for the future of our church. This has been learning experience for me! We are now working on a home based business project that is quickly replacing my regular job income, providing much more flexibility and also providing great connections for building relationships. So, once again I am realizing the benefits of being self-employed since my primary focus is on builidng the church. I realize you have to do whatever you have to do to provide for your family, but this "flexible job" consideration is HUGE for involvement in ministry!
1. As it has already been established and commented there are no part time pastors. A pastor may hold another occupation and yet still be fully dedicated to the call of pastoring. 2.-A bi-vocational pastor follows the incarnational model that Jesus adopted. This gives me the opportunity to listen and understand where people are coming from and going through. It’s a deeper understanding and opportunity for developing friendships. -A bi-vocational pastor also has a greater degree of freedom to lead congregations because their total livelihood is not threatened by non-supportive leadership. I also really like this statement that they are also more likely to adapt team leadership. -A bi-vocational pastor lives in the real world. Living in the real world helps me to understand the struggles and constraints of time. 3. Joseph was a government official; Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king; Luke was a physician;Peter was a tentmaker; Jesus Christ was a carpenter.
In response to Ed Gann-I too agree that “Select A Flexbile Job” is vital when having to work. I own a landscaping business which gives me the flexibility I need. My wife works as a teacher which also gives her some flexibility. However, as for myself I do have the ability to attend emergencies, funerals, and meetings during the day when need be.
I agree with ppdap that being Bi-vocational has allowed me to be involved in the secular world and using my business to bring cutting edge ideas into the church. It also allows me to be connected with various people in the community providing an inside track to the temperature of the people.
1. What is the difference between and bi-vocational preacher and part-time preacher?
ReplyDeleteThere is no part-time preacher. Being in ministry is a full-time calling. It is like being a parent – there is no part-time mother or father. You are always a parent. A bi-vocational preacher is one who has a secular profession in addition to his/her ministry work (e.g. pastor, evangelist, church planter).
2. Identify at least 3 benefits of a bi-vocational preacher.
i) Able to contribute more financially to the work because of the two incomes receive (i.e. one from secular job and the other income from the tithes and offering from the church.
ii) Able to develop relationships with the unsaved people you work with. Pastors who do not have a second job rare have opportunities to interact with unsaved.
iii) A bi-vocational pastor is less likely to be influenced by pressures associated with people in the church who has control over the finances – whether directly or indirectly. Because they are not solely dependent on the income from the church, they are able to take a stand regarding principles and beliefs found in the scripture and not compromise.
3. Give at least 2 examples of a bi-vocational preacher in the bible.
The apostle Paul was a bi-vocational preacher. He build tents to support himself and the ministry in Corinth. (2 Corinthians 12:14-15). Aquila and Priscilla, who were tent makers like Paul (Acts 18:3) and taught Apollos a bible study (Acts 18:26) who were later referenced as having a church in their house (1 Corinthians 16:19).
I could be wrong on the Aquila and Priscilla answer but it lloked to me that given that they were co-workers with Paul and saw how he operated, they may be influenced to follow his approach. In any event they had a church in their house. It is likely that they were then meeting the need of their congregants as people with some means it would appear.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your teaching.The question of the difference between a bi-vocational preacher and a part time preacher? I don't believe a God called preacher can be part time.We are all an epistle known and read of all men,might I add every where we go the unsaved are watching and reading our lives. While it is duly noted that non working Pastors can work just as hard as bi-vocational pastors,the general public does not physically see their individual duties,unlike the working pastor people can see and respect their hard labors.Also a working pastor understands the struggles of life better because they also are living them.Another benefit they have more opportunity to witness and shine for the gospel as they are working with the unsaved. There are many bi-vocational preachers in the bible some of which are:Noah was bi-vocational Hebrews 11:7 Noah prepared an ark to the saving of his house.Elisha worked in the woods 2Kings6:1-4,Paul was a tent maker along with Aquila and Priscilla who won without Paul a Jew by the name of Apollos in Acts18:24-28.Also two of the prophets Haggai and Zachariah didn't mind getting their hands dirty building the wall at Jerusalem Ezra5:1-2.Of coarse our greatest example is our Lord Jesus called by people who knew him the carpenter the son of Mary Mark6:3
ReplyDeleteTo Brother E Heron I would like to comment on your statement that you were not sure if Aquila and Priscilla were preachers.I believe they were, as you pointed out in Romans16:3-5 they had a church in their house, also they were very well learned in the word and wisdom of God to reach such a powerful preacher as Apollos in Acts18:24-28.They might not have been as prominent as Paul but they were teachers non the less.
ReplyDeleteTo me a part time minister is not a reflection as to whether or not they work in a secular job but more of the mental state of the preacher. We have to realize that this is a calling and that it does not always look like every other preachers ministy. It is a unique calling that reaches to a lost world.
ReplyDeleteThe bi-vocational preacher is going to have some advantages and that is that they can have more means to offer services to the church that may not have been there before. It also allows them the spiritual freedom from being dependent on a church income to prayerfully establish priciples in the church.
ReplyDeleteBro Harwood you are so correct, Jesus was most certainly a great example of this. he was a doctor, carpenter, soup kitchen, and councelor.. this list goes on and on! What a great lesson and thought, as a bi-vocational preacher it lifts me up to see that I am not less of a minister, but follow established new testement paths!
ReplyDeleteGreat teaching. There is definitely no such thing as a part-time minister. It is a lifestyle. I am a "Tri-Vocational" pastor if that is such a thing. I use to be embarrassed by that when trying to witness to people in the community, but now I have come to realize that it is the very key I have to building strong relationships with people and reaching them. It has been a blessing in disguise.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this indepth presentation on full time mentality when it comes to the kingdom of God. This is a major stumbling block for young ministers that believe that going full time is the key for revivial. As pastors we that have put the hours in outreach and counseling we find out that it is the Lord's increase if we put in the time.
ReplyDeleteBi-vocational Pastors are in the cutting edge of information and social temperature for their geographical environment. They understand trends that impact their saints and most importantly their youth. If I was going to invest in the kingdom of God I had to understand that I will have get use to the word subsidize, subsidize, subsidize. As a Bi-vocational Pastor I have become a visionary and God has repeatedly provided the resources.
ReplyDeleteI have found many examples of bi-vocational preachers, Moses was a counselor, David was a shepherd, Noah was an Ark Builder, Paul was a tent maker, Peter and John were fishermen, Luke was a physician, Mathew was a tax collector, and Jesus was a carpenter.
Three benefits of a a bi-vocational preacher is:
1. The social awareness/temperature of his geographical environment where he is pastoring.
2. Much needed Finances to finance outreach ministries and reach his mission field.
3. Develope leadership within the church and learn to delegate tasks to departmental leaders to help when he is unavailable to do so.
I dont beleive a part-time preacher exist, its all or nothing! A bi-vocational preacher is a minister that works but his passion and calling is to preach the gospel to reach souls.
Reg Harwood: You are correct it was most of the women that did lead the early home churches as we see the case in Philemon's wife Apphia, Nymphas from Laodicea, Lydia of Thyatira, and Chloe from Corinth to name a few. These women are great examples of the leadership potential in the church today.
ReplyDeleteIt is vital to examine one's calling and know that if God has called you to a city, He is able to provide for you. A bi-vocational pastor has the responsibility to honor the call of God while balancing the needs of family, church, and vocation. This is a delicate balance, and takes both dedication and faith to accomplish. God has brought the individual and family to the city and will equip them to fulfill His will.
ReplyDeleteCreating boundaries for one’s own family is extremely important for the bi-vocational pastor. Due to the difficulties and constraints that are placed on one’s time, this can be one of the most neglected areas of someone in the ministry. Time demands require that the bi-vocational minister guard family time and allow his/her first priority to be the welfare and spiritual condition of them. Without their support, the bi-vocational pastor will emotionally and spiritually suffer.
ReplyDeleteResponse to ppdap: I agree with you that the bi-vocational pastor may have a greater understanding of the trends that impact their saints and youth. Because of their closeness to the workplace, they have greater exposure to some of the economic and social changes that occur on the job. Such insight can be both beneficial and helpful to assist in ministering to the needs of congregation as well as provide an opportunity to reach souls in a way that may not be initially thought of had the individual not work alongside of someone in need. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete1. What is the difference between a bi-vocational preacher and a "part time preacher"?
ReplyDeleteThere is really no such thing as a part time preacher unless one views themselves this way. We are called to be people of God and so also there are no part time Christians. A bi-vocational preacher must see their employment as a benefit to kingdom work. If we do not see outside vocation as a means to outreach as well as financial stability then we do a disservice to our calling by feeling that we are not as called as those primarily being paid by a church.
2. Identify 3 benefits of the bi-vocational pastor.
(1) - The ability to network and interact with those living real life and facing real life issues.
(2) - Having the means to help finance the work of God when a church may not be able to do it solely on its own.
(3) - Having the opportunity to get further into the field of harvest beyond the church doors on a daily basis.
3. Give an example of at least two bi-vocational preachers in the Bible.
(1) Noah - a preacher of righteousness who worked building an ark. not only was he consistent, proven by the ark he built, but he was successful at making sure those closest to him were saved.
(2) Paul. The great apostle, church planter, preacher worked when he needed to in order to be a blessing to the local church instead of a burden.
In response to The Sanctuary - I agree that we must have the understanding to know that if God calls - He provides. i also think that we must try to notice that provision when it comes in unexpected forms and to be wise stewards of it, so we may fulfill the call.
ReplyDeleteIn response to ppdap: I think the stumbling block illustration is a good one. Revival comes in many forms but having a full time position at a church is not key to any form of revival. I agree with you that it is vital to put in the time and that if we will plant and we will water, that the Lord will give the increase.
ReplyDeleteIn response to part 3: I think Chase should take these three things into consideration.
ReplyDelete- What does his wife think.
- Determine if he will be making a choice solely on the financial aspect of each church.
- What abilities and skills does he have that will translate into secular employment if he needs to pursue that.
I've had a rough time learning how to write in a blog....Lord help me..
ReplyDelete3 benefits of being a Bi-vocational preacher.
We support ourselves and the church plant.
Our family maintains the same level of income, making it easier to support the work.
Since we have our own income we are not a burden to anyone.
There really isn't a part time preacher, those of us with a job outside the church, in some cases are busier than "fulltime ministers"
Noah and Paul are the examples I like the best, of bivocational preachers. Both men supported what God called them to do, by working to produce a church. Noah only had 8 souls in his little church, but none of us would be here without his efforts!
For a long time my wife wasn't very interested in what God called me to do. However, it was a very special day to me last summer when my wife walked into the house and began discussing starting a church in a home in the town where I have always felt the call. She knew the moment she mentioned it, I was ready. But it takes both parties in a marriage, committed to this work. It would never be easy doing a church plant with one spouse objecting. Because the husband got the call, in this case, he must remember his wife is his greatest supporter. We spend as much time together as possible. I try to take her with me most of the time. I realize what we are doing may not count for offical family time, but we are enjoying being with each other even as we start this work.
ReplyDeleteMark, I like the tri-vocational angle, I probaly fit into that catagory myself. We are remodeling a church building, I'm working 10 hours a day at the manufacturing plant, and we have a small congregation with me looking for more people to teach Bible studies to. Oh and I have three children and two precious grandbabies.
ReplyDeleteThere are no "part-time" preachers. All ministry is full time. One should not view himself as "Part time" just because his main source of income is derived from a secular job. The minister must embrace the opportunities that come with being a bi-vocational.
ReplyDeleteSome of the advantages to being bi-vocational are:
ReplyDelete1. As a bi-vocational preacher, I have the opportunity to interact with more non-christians.
2. Because I receive an income from a secular job, I have been afforded the priviledge of taking care of some of the financial needs of the church.
3. As a bi-vocational minister, we have an opportunity to identify more closely with some of the issues that touch peoples lives.
Peter was a fisherman
ReplyDeletePaul was a tent maker
Luke was physician.
It seems that many times, established church and home missions church, that the goal of the pastor is to try to get the church built to the point that they can go "full-time" with the church. (And I also agree with the need for full-time pastor mentality ... even when bi-vocational) But it seems too often that once the pastor is full time with the church, the growth rate diminishes. I know of one pastor who was bi-vocational as a public school teacher. The average attendance of his congregation was over 400. He maintained his secular career becuase of, as Bro. Deckard taught, he had so many more opportunitites to build relationships and make an impact in the community. Maybe we need to constantly consider our purpose. Is our goal to be full-time or to impact our communities? How can we "most effectively" be involved in expanding the Kingdom of God? (from Bro. Bernard's lesson)
ReplyDeleteBro. O'Connell, I with you on the time and family thing! I feel probabaly one of the most vital things for the bi-vocational pastor to do is to be diligent with time management! Working from a plan can of itself remove a lot of stress from our lives. And it's also necessary to include in the plan ... family and leisure time.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to comment on the survey conducted by Focus On The Family. The point made about "Select A Flexible Job". Much of my adult life has been in full-time ministry. Occassionally, I was doing some extra work on the side and any secualr work I was involved with, I was always "self-employed." This was usually a good fit with ministry. However, since we arrived here in Columbia, I was working for a contractor and didn't have as much flexibility. Also, I was taking care of projects out of town and usually I was working alone. With this arrangement, I had income but there was absolutely no opportunity for connecting with people and building relationships for the future of our church. This has been learning experience for me! We are now working on a home based business project that is quickly replacing my regular job income, providing much more flexibility and also providing great connections for building relationships. So, once again I am realizing the benefits of being self-employed since my primary focus is on builidng the church. I realize you have to do whatever you have to do to provide for your family, but this "flexible job" consideration is HUGE for involvement in ministry!
ReplyDelete1. As it has already been established and commented there are no part time pastors. A pastor may hold another occupation and yet still be fully dedicated to the call of pastoring.
ReplyDelete2.-A bi-vocational pastor follows the incarnational model that Jesus adopted. This gives me the opportunity to listen and understand where people are coming from and going through. It’s a deeper understanding and opportunity for developing friendships.
-A bi-vocational pastor also has a greater degree of freedom to lead congregations because their total livelihood is not threatened by non-supportive leadership. I also really like this statement that they are also more likely to adapt team leadership.
-A bi-vocational pastor lives in the real world. Living in the real world helps me to understand the struggles and constraints of time.
3. Joseph was a government official; Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king; Luke was a physician;Peter was a tentmaker; Jesus Christ was a carpenter.
In response to Ed Gann-I too agree that “Select A Flexbile Job” is vital when having to work. I own a landscaping business which gives me the flexibility I need. My wife works as a teacher which also gives her some flexibility. However, as for myself I do have the ability to attend emergencies, funerals, and meetings during the day when need be.
ReplyDeleteI agree with ppdap that being Bi-vocational has allowed me to be involved in the secular world and using my business to bring cutting edge ideas into the church. It also allows me to be connected with various people in the community providing an inside track to the temperature of the people.
ReplyDelete