Selecting a pastor is one of the most critical decisions a church will make. A pulpit committee plays a vital role in ensuring that the chosen candidate aligns with the church’s doctrinal beliefs, leadership expectations, and vision for the future. Asking the right questions helps the committee evaluate a pastor’s theology, character, leadership style, and personal life.
This topic outlines key questions a pulpit committee should ask to find the right spiritual leader for their congregation.
Doctrinal and Theological Questions
1. What is your view of the authority of Scripture?
A pastor’s belief about the Bible is foundational. Ask whether they believe it is the inspired, inerrant Word of God and how that influences their preaching and teaching.
2. How do you interpret core Christian doctrines?
Clarify their stance on salvation, the Trinity, baptism, the Lord’s Supper, spiritual gifts, and eschatology. This ensures alignment with the church’s theological foundation.
3. What is your approach to preaching and teaching?
Determine if the candidate prefers expository, topical, or narrative preaching. Ask how they structure sermons and how they engage both mature believers and new Christians.
4. How do you view church traditions and contemporary issues?
Some pastors emphasize traditional practices, while others are open to modern worship styles. Ask how they balance biblical truth with cultural relevance.
Pastoral Leadership and Vision
5. How do you define the role of a pastor?
Understanding how the candidate views their responsibilities in preaching, teaching, counseling, and leadership will clarify their expectations and priorities.
6. How do you handle conflict in the church?
Churches will inevitably face conflicts. A pastor should demonstrate wisdom, patience, and biblical conflict resolution skills.
7. What is your vision for church growth and discipleship?
A strong candidate should articulate a clear vision for evangelism, outreach, and spiritual formation that aligns with the church’s mission.
8. How do you develop and equip church leaders?
Healthy churches need strong leadership teams. Ask about their approach to training deacons, elders, and ministry leaders.
Personal and Family Life
9. Can you tell us about your personal testimony and spiritual journey?
A pastor’s faith story provides insight into their walk with God, calling to ministry, and spiritual maturity.
10. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Pastoral ministry can be demanding. Ask how they protect time for family, personal rest, and spiritual renewal.
11. How does your family feel about your calling to ministry?
A pastor’s family plays a crucial role in their effectiveness and longevity in ministry. Ensure they have spousal and family support.
Practical Ministry Experience
12. What is your experience in pastoral ministry?
Learn about their previous church roles, challenges faced, and lessons learned over the years.
13. How do you handle pastoral counseling?
Pastors often counsel individuals and families. Ask about their approach to counseling on marriage, grief, addiction, and spiritual struggles.
14. How do you approach church discipline?
Church discipline is a sensitive issue. Understanding their biblical and practical approach helps set expectations.
15. What is your experience with missions and community outreach?
Ask how they engage the local community and promote global missions.
Church Administration and Finances
16. What is your philosophy on church finances and stewardship?
A pastor should support wise financial management, transparency, and biblical stewardship.
17. How do you work with church staff and volunteers?
The ability to delegate, encourage, and build a healthy team environment is crucial for church leadership.
18. What role do you see for technology and media in the church?
In today’s digital age, a pastor’s perspective on social media, online services, and church communication is important.
Final Considerations
19. Why do you feel called to our church?
A strong pastoral candidate should be able to articulate their calling and connection to the church’s mission.
20. If hired, what would your first six months look like?
This helps the committee understand their priorities, goals, and approach to ministry transition.
Choosing the right pastor requires prayer, discernment, and thorough evaluation. By asking these key questions, a pulpit committee can ensure they find a leader who aligns with the church’s beliefs, vision, and needs.