What is a pastor and what does the Bible say about them?
A pastor (the word means "shepherd") is a leader who feeds, protects, and oversees a local church — a calling Scripture treats with high honor and high accountability before God.
Pastors are called shepherds because their work is shepherding — feeding the flock with God’s Word, guarding it from error, and seeking the lost (1 Peter 5:1–4).
Scripture sets a tall bar: above reproach, sober-minded, hospitable, able to teach, gentle, managing his own household well (1 Timothy 3). The same is true of elders/overseers, which the New Testament uses interchangeably.
Pastors will give an account to "the Chief Shepherd" for the souls they served. Pray for your pastors, honor them, and remember they serve under the One Shepherd — Jesus.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.