Jeff Augustine, Master of Arts in Theology – Jeff was the senior pastor of Life Community Church of Central Illinois and has 23 years of pastoral ministry experience.
Keith Green once said in one of his songs that attending a church no more makes you a Christian than going to McDonald’s makes you a hamburger. If God has called someone to be a pastor, a degree or title or position no more makes it so. The simplest way to know if you are a pastor or leader is to turn around and see if anyone is following. My old mentor and pastor had a phrase that captured this well, “an elder is an elder to the degree that he needs.” Being a pastor is not a position to be attained but a function to be performed. Many have the title or degree without the reality.
Pastoral ministry is generally local and specific and takes place in a unique community under certain conditions. The denominational structure can also play a role in how a pastoral position functions. To pastor or plant, a church is contextual in terms of requirements. A pastoral leader in a younger or new context (church planting) may not need as much theological training but a pastor of a growing church or sizable community needs a certain level of theological and biblical training if they are going to responsibly feed, disciple, and grow the community in the Scriptures.
The pastoral role is to train and equip others to minister so that they in turn train others and the progression becomes endless in expanding the ministry of Jesus.
The degree the pastor is trained and equipped will affect the way others are trained within that community. Education is part of the preparation and ongoing process of leadership. Although more is caught than taught through experience and hands-on ministry in the trenches, there is also a great need for pastors to be equipped in the scriptures and theology. A pastor can only give away what they have been given. They can only share what they have learned.
In Matthew 9:37, Jesus tells us that "the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." If God is calling you to be a pastor or leader, then do all you can to get the training you need to be effective. A degree does not make you a pastor but a pastor with a degree can be very effective in making disciples for Jesus Christ. You will not be able to reap where you have not sown. A degree in Biblical Studies or Christian Ministry will allow you to be used in ways that would not have been possible without it.
Colorado Christian University does not guarantee any job placement as a result of earning this or any other degrees offered by the university.
Take your future further with CCU’s new Master of Arts in Executive Leadership in Christian Ministry or other degree program options in applied apologetics, biblical studies, theology, and Christian ministry!
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FAQs
A degree does not make you a pastor but a pastor with a degree can be very effective in making disciples for Jesus Christ. You will not be able to reap where you have not sown. A degree in Biblical Studies or Christian Ministry will allow you to be used in ways that would not have been possible without it.
Can you become a pastor without a degree? ›
Typically, a person wishing to become a pastor will complete a bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry and / or Bible Theology and then go on to seminary. Seminary almost always requires at least a bachelor's degree. A Bible college is an ideal place to earn your bachelor's degree.
Can I get a pastoral degree online? ›
The online pastoral ministries bachelor's degree from Campbellsville University provides you with a broad and deep understanding of ministry study and works to help you become a future leader in Christ. The program examines subjects like biblical study, missiology, church history, evangelism and pastoral care in depth.
Do you need a certification to be a preacher? ›
No federal, state, or local government determines any licensing or certification requirements for church leaders. Instead, you must meet the educational and experiential requirements of your particular religious body.
Can you become a pastor online? ›
Getting Ordained Online
Go to an online non-denominational ministry's website, such as The Universal Life Church Ministries or Open Ministry. Click on “Get Ordained” or something to that effect. Fill out the form. Pay the nominal online ordination fee, if any.
Can you preach without being a pastor? ›
What's the difference between a pastor and a preacher? While a pastor's role is incredibly varied, a preacher is someone who preaches. Simply put, all pastors are preachers, but not all preachers are pastors.
What qualifies a person to be a pastor? ›
Fulfilling the Biblical Qualifications of a Pastor With a Theology Degree. Earning a degree in theology can prepare you to serve others by growing your knowledge of theology and teaching you how to minister to others and faithfully serve God, whether it is as a member of the clergy or as part of a worship team.
What is the difference between a licensed preacher and an ordained preacher? ›
The only real difference between the two is an expiration date. The National Association of Christian Ministers recognizes the lifelong calling with ordination. We also offer a minister license for the minister who may be serving in situations where they must prove that they are in “good standing”.
What does the Bible say about the qualifications of a pastor? ›
2 Timothy 4: 1-2 – I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
How long does it take to become a pastor? ›
The requirements for ordination vary by denomination and by individual church, so it may take longer to become a pastor in one church as compared to another. It generally takes three years to complete an MDiv program, and it may take two or three years to complete the candidacy process in some churches.
Christian Leaders Institute is your gateway to a free pastoral online training program that gives you many options!
Do you need a degree to be a worship pastor? ›
In some churches, you must also have formal training in a pastoral role, such as attending a seminary. However, many contemporary churches do not require formal training to be a worship leader. Instead, they seek applicants devoted to the Christian faith and Jesus Christ who have skills and experience related to music.
Who can call themselves a pastor? ›
A "pastor" may be either ordained or commissioned, depending on the methods used to appoint a person into the role, with either way resulting in the same authority and responsibilities to provide shepherding and grace to a congregation.
What percentage of pastors have a degree? ›
Pastors by degree level
| Pastor Degree | Percentages |
|---|
| Bachelor's | 51% |
| Master's | 31% |
| Associate | 8% |
| Doctorate | 4% |
1 more rowprogram is one of the most common degrees offered in seminary. It typically takes three to four years to complete full-time. Part-time options may be available, which can take longer to complete.
How does it take to become a pastor? ›
Steps Toward Becoming a Church Pastor
- Become a Standing Member of the Church.
- Study the Scripture and Memorize Its Teaching.
- Desire and Cultivate a Close Relationship with God.
- Attend a Theological School.
- Get Additional Training.
- Get Involved in Church Activities and Make Your Intention Known.
- Attend the Ordination Council.
