QUESTION: Is there any problem with applying the term “pastor” to ministers of the local church? ANSWER: In the New Testament the descriptive word “pastor” (which is identical to our word “shepherd”), in both its noun and verb forms, when used of church leaders, is used only of the elders of the church. The verb (poimainō) is also used once for the apostle Peter (John 21:16) and several times for Jesus (Matt. 2:6; four times in Revelation). It is used for elders in Acts 20:28 and 1 Peter 5:2. The noun (poimēn) is used mostly for Jesus (John 10:11ff.; Heb. … Continue reading →