The role of a pastor is one of the most critical and sacred offices within the Church. Despite its significance, misunderstandings and misinterpretations of the office abound, especially regarding its relationship to terms such as bishop, elder, and presbyter. Additionally, the role of the pastor within the Five-Fold Ministry, as described in Ephesians 4:11, is often debated. This article will provide a thorough and Biblically grounded exploration of the pastor’s role, demonstrating that bishop, elder, and presbyter are synonymous terms for the same office and not separate positions. Furthermore, we will explore how the Greek text of Ephesians 4 reveals that the “Five-Fold Ministry” is better understood as a Four-Fold Ministry, with pastors and teachers functioning as one office.

Biblical Terminology for the Role of a Pastor

The New Testament uses various terms to describe the office of a pastor. These terms—poimēn (pastor or shepherd), episkopos (bishop or overseer), and presbyteros (elder)—are often used interchangeably to describe the same role. To fully understand their interconnectedness, let us examine their meanings and usage in the original Greek.

1. Poimēn (Pastor or Shepherd)

The term poimēn (ποιμήν), meaning “shepherd,” appears in Ephesians 4:11 as part of the ministry offices given by Christ:

“And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11, NASB).

Here, poimēn emphasizes the pastoral role as one who cares for, protects, and leads the flock of God. This image aligns with Jesus’ description of Himself as the Good Shepherd (poimēn kalos) in John 10:11. A pastor is called to emulate Christ’s example of loving, sacrificial leadership over His Church.

2. Episkopos (Bishop or Overseer)

The term episkopos (ἐπίσκοπος), translated as “overseer” or “bishop,” highlights the administrative and supervisory aspects of the pastoral office. For example, in Acts 20:28, Paul exhorts the elders of Ephesus:

“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers (episkopoi), to shepherd (poimainein) the church of God.”

Here, Paul uses episkopos and poimainein (to shepherd) together, showing that overseeing and shepherding are not separate functions but part of the same role.

3. Presbyteros (Elder)

The term presbyteros (πρεσβύτερος), meaning “elder,” conveys the spiritual maturity and wisdom required for church leadership. In Titus 1:5-7, Paul uses presbyteros and episkopos interchangeably:

“Appoint elders (presbyteroi) in every city… For the overseer (episkopos) must be above reproach.”

This passage clearly demonstrates that elder and bishop are two aspects of the same office. The term presbyteros focuses on the leader’s character and experience, while episkopos highlights their functional responsibilities.

Synonymous Usage of Terms

In 1 Peter 5:1-2, Peter uses all three terms—presbyteros, episkopos, and poimēn—to describe one role:

“Therefore, I exhort the elders (presbyteroi) among you… shepherd (poimainein) the flock of God among you, exercising oversight (episkopountes) not under compulsion, but voluntarily.”

This passage conclusively shows that the terms are not describing separate offices but are synonymous and complementary, collectively describing the multifaceted role of a pastor.

The Pastor in the Context of the Five-Fold Ministry

Ephesians 4:11 is a foundational passage for understanding the leadership roles Christ has given to the Church. In many modern interpretations, this passage is referred to as the “Five-Fold Ministry.” However, a closer examination of the Greek text reveals that it is actually a Four-Fold Ministry, with pastors and teachers comprising one combined office.

The Greek Grammar of Ephesians 4:11

In the original Greek, the structure of Ephesians 4:11 distinguishes the first three offices (apostles, prophets, and evangelists) from the fourth (pastors and teachers). The key lies in the use of the definite article (tous):

• tous apostolous (the apostles)

• tous prophētas (the prophets)

• tous euangelistas (the evangelists)

• tous poimenas kai didaskalous (the pastors and teachers)

The definite article is repeated before each of the first three roles but is used only once for “pastors and teachers,” connecting them as one combined function. This grammatical structure suggests that the pastoral role inherently involves teaching.

Pastors as Shepherd-Teachers

The combined office of pastor-teacher reflects the dual responsibility of spiritual care and doctrinal instruction. As shepherds, pastors guide and nurture the flock, and as teachers, they ground the Church in sound doctrine. This dual role is affirmed in 1 Timothy 3:2, where Paul lists teaching ability as a qualification for overseers (episkopoi):

“An overseer must be… able to teach (didaktikos).”

Pastors who neglect teaching risk leaving their congregations vulnerable to false doctrine, while those who fail to shepherd lose the relational trust needed to lead effectively. Both aspects are essential to fulfilling the pastoral calling.

The Responsibilities of a Pastor

The Biblical role of a pastor encompasses several key responsibilities:

1. Shepherding the Flock

Pastors are called to care for the spiritual well-being of their congregations, following the example of Jesus as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). This includes providing guidance, protection, and encouragement (Psalm 23).

2. Teaching Sound Doctrine

Pastors must faithfully teach the Word of God, ensuring their congregations are grounded in truth (2 Timothy 4:2). This involves not only public preaching but also personal discipleship and instruction.

3. Guarding Against False Teaching

As overseers, pastors must protect their congregations from harmful doctrines and practices (Titus 1:9). This requires vigilance and a deep understanding of Scripture.

4. Equipping the Saints

Pastors play a crucial role in equipping believers for ministry, helping them discover and develop their spiritual gifts (Ephesians 4:12).

5. Leading by Example

Pastors must model Christlike character and humility, serving as examples to their flock (1 Peter 5:3).

Conclusion

The role of a pastor, as revealed in Scripture, is a multifaceted and sacred calling. The Greek terms poimēn, episkopos, and presbyteros collectively describe the pastoral office, emphasizing its responsibilities of shepherding, overseeing, and teaching. Furthermore, the grammatical structure of Ephesians 4:11 clarifies that the so-called “Five-Fold Ministry” is actually a Four-Fold Ministry, with pastors and teachers serving as one unified office.

Pastors are not merely administrators or preachers but shepherd-teachers who guide, nurture, and equip the Body of Christ. By embracing the full scope of their Biblical calling, pastors can lead their congregations into greater spiritual maturity and unity, fulfilling Christ’s vision for His Church.

Let us honor and support those who faithfully serve in this vital role, recognizing their labor as an extension of Christ’s own ministry to His people.