The Prudence of Pastoral Visitation
I love God because He first loved me (1 Jn 4:19). I love God’s people, Christ’s sheep because they have the Spirit of Christ in them. They are the flock of God, whom He loves with an everlasting love.
In His restoration commission of Peter, Jesus, with emphasis, instructed the fisherman turned disciple, turned apostle to feed and tend those who belong to Christ, the Good Shepherd. To shepherd the flock of God is the calling of the pastor/elder (1 Pet 5:1–5).
The office of elder is reserved for those men of God who are appointed by the Holy Spirit (Acts 20:28). Those who are qualified according to Scripture, serve the local church with spiritual oversight. These men are able to teach God’s Word with right discernment, being filled with the Holy Spirit to do so.
The gifting to be a pastor is the result of the Holy Spirit’s endowment. It is not reserved for elders, only. It is becoming of an elder, however, to have the gifting of a pastor. Elders who shepherd well are gifted in the task of being a pastor.
Pastoral ministry is best described as, “the care of souls.” Pastors care about people with a degree of intention. They initiate contact with the beloved of God, as the Spirit leads them. Those belonging to Christ, who are especially vulnerable, are of special interest to those who have a pastor’s heart. This includes the widow and orphan and those who find themselves in prison. Saints in diverse crises also invite the attention of pastors who care.
Barnabas lived his moniker as the “son of encouragement.” Pastors travel o visit the saints where they live. They spend themselves for the edification of the saints. They trust in God’s faithful re-supply of resources invested to build up the body of Christ. There is an ever-present desire to return to those who benefitted from previous ministries.
The pastor/elder loves to see spiritual growth in other believers, especially those who received blessing before knowing that it is more blessed to given than to receive, the minister pours out whatever God has entrusted to him as a stewardship. The promise of God’s resupply is a significant motivation for giving and giving again.
Although financial and material giving is part of the ministry, the giving of time and spiritual riches must be part of the giving of the pastor/elder. I have often marveled how few Christians have received a home visiting from the one or ones who must give an account to God.
The called man of God must be with the people. He must know their names. He must be familiar with their lot in life. It is his duty to have a Word from the Lord, to be instant in season and out of season.
A good shepherd will help the sheep, each one, to overcome insects, predators, and bully sheep. Every member of Christ’s body needs green pasture and still waters. A simple inquiry of a member of the flock and then testimony includes the amount and quality of pastoral care they are receiving.
The departure of a senior saint, to go be with the Lord, turns awkward if the man of God really did not know the deceased. Home visitation fills in many of the unknowns. It says, “I care.” It also permits the pastor to enter the realm of knowing needs that may have not been stated. Where is a Christian more comfortable than in his or her own home?
The care of souls requires the pastor hear the soul he is ministering to. The life-long church member confesses unbelief or fears. The pastor is a privileged confidant. It takes time and multiple visits to gain trust for all things to be revealed that prayers may be more precise.
Jesus was found in the house of numerous people in the biblical record. He often dined with those who were graced with His presence. If the pastor/elder initiates a home visit, it is wise for the one being visited to entertain by breaking bread. Receiving pastors or any Christian for that matter, as one would receive Jesus is a wise practice. The visitor is brining the Spirit of Christ with him or her.
Home visitation by pastor/elders is a blessed event. Sweet fellowship belongs to both the visitor and the one being visited. Christ is with us when we gather in His name. He imparts grace and gifts. We pray for one another and part with a greater sense of union and unity.
If you are a pastor/elder, my dear reader, then follow the example of Jesus and the faithful divines from throughout church history. God the homes of your flock and get to know them in their sanctuary. IF you are a member of Christ’s church and call a certain man, “pastor,” or “elder,” then encourage that relationship of care is entrusted to your honored guest, and a blessing is likely afforded to you.
David Norczyk
Spokane Valley, Washington
July 25, 2021
