Frequently Asked Questions
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We run together! Cheering each other on, passing the baton, and picking up the fallen.
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| Does everyone need the help of a Primary Pastor to run the race? |
Yes! Every member of PABC should have a designated Primary Pastor. More questions concerning this are examined below.
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If you become a Primary Pastor have you finished the race? |
No! We need to continually work together to fulfill the mission God has given us. Part of the responsibility of a Primary Pastor is helping others to run the race well!
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| Is a Primary Pastor selected for life? |
No! Relationships and seasons in one’s life change. Primary Pastors may change upon mutual agreement.
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What does the Bible say about Pastors? |
Pastors are gifts with a specific purpose from God to the church. (Eph. 4:11-13)
Pastors rely on God’s grace to serve. (Eph. 3:7)
Pastors are appointed by God and recognized by others. (Eph. 4:11-13)
Pastors “care” as they lead.
(Jer 3:15, 23:4)
Pastors serve to please God and tenderly show others the way.
(1 Peter 5:2-3 The Message)
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| Why should every member at PABC have a Primary Pastor? |
| Pastoral care meets two basic needs: To belong and to make a difference. Our Vision of “every member being fruitful and fulfilled by making their unique contribution in a meaningful place of service” and Our Value of “teamwork as the basic method of operation” speak of the necessity of connection to make a difference.
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| What does a Primary Pastor provide? |
- Prayer
- Care
- Connection
- Godly Wisdom
- An example of Godly character and lifestyle
- A guide for personal development and growth
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| Is there a difference between Primary Pastors who are paid by the church and those who receive their income from other employment? |
| No. Compensation from the church simply frees individuals to devote more of their time to ministry. We believe the New Testament doctrine of the “Priesthood of all believers.”
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| Who can be a Primary Pastor? |
| Anyone, male or female, who meets the scriptural qualifications, has been recommended by a ministry director, and has been approved by the Elders. The person can then be publicly recognized during a corporate service. |
| If you have a Primary Pastor, is he or she the only person you can turn to for prayer, care, or wisdom? |
| No. You can, and should, be very open to counsel wherever the Lord provides it. However, you need a primary connection—a bottom line point of reference. That is your Primary Pastor.
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| How do you designate a Primary Pastor? |
Pray and ask God for His placement for you.
If you are not connected in a small group or ministry group, find one where you feel comfortable and get involved.
Ask yourself, “Who would I be comfortable going to for counsel or guidance in an area of personal need? Who will I allow to hold me accountable as necessary?
Approach the leader who you feel comfortable going to for counsel, and ask that person to consider providing Pastoral Care for you.
When there is mutual consent between you and a certain Primary Pastor, then fill out the attached PPC Agreement Form. Once you both have signed, the Primary Pastor will process the agreement form through a ministry director.
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| Should married couples have the same Primary Pastor? |
| Spouses normally have the same Primary Pastor, but you have the option to choose your own.
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| Is there a limit to the number of people a Primary Pastor can provide care for? |
| Yes, PABC recognizes the Jethro principle (from Exodus 18) - Capable leaders can easily be overworked. Every leader needs boundaries or limits, so do not be offended if the person you approach to be your Primary Pastor recommends that you ask someone else.
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