Senior Pastor Job Description
Calvary Baptist Church is seeking a biblically qualified elder (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9) to join
our team of elders in shepherding the flock through preaching, teaching, and pastoral care.
According to Calvary’s Constitution regarding the Senior Pastor Article VIII, Section 1,
Subsection A. Authority and Responsibilities - He is the senior spiritual leader of the church,
and his principal responsibility is to equip the saints for the work of the ministry—primarily
through the teaching of God’s Word (Ephesians 4:11-12). Other responsibilities will be
determined by the Elders. He will be an Elder and will have authority over and responsibility
for the other pastors as determined by the Elders.
Additionally, Subsection B includes: Qualifications - He will have the qualifications of an Elder.
Other qualifications will be determined by the Elders.
Title and Role

● Position: Senior Pastor (Paid Elder with Focus on Preaching, Teaching, and
Shepherding)
● Governance: Elder-Led (Plurality of Elders with Equal Authority)
● Employment Status: Full-Time, Salaried
● Accountability: Reports to the Elder Team
● Location: Calvary Baptist Church, Woodbridge, VA
Purpose of the Role The Senior Pastor serves as an equal among the elders, set apart as a
paid role to dedicate significant time to prayer, Scripture study, preaching, teaching,
counseling, and shepherding (Acts 6:4; 1 Timothy 5:17). This title reflects a functional emphasis
on gifting, not hierarchy.
Biblical and Polity Commitments
● Jesus Christ is the sole Head of the Church.
● Leadership is through a plurality of qualified elders sharing equal authority and
responsibility for spiritual oversight.
● All elders function as shepherds, without distinctions in office or authority.
Primary Responsibilities Preaching & Teaching

● Dedicate substantial time to prayerful Scripture study.
● Deliver faithful, expository preaching and teaching most weeks.
● Collaborate with elders to manage the pulpit schedule.
Shepherding & Pastoral Care
● Offer biblical counseling, prayer, visitation, encouragement, and support.
● Share fully in shepherding duties with the Elder Team.
Equipping the Saints
● Train believers for spiritual maturity.
● Disciple other elders for teaching and preaching.
● Foster growth in biblical knowledge, disciplined living, evangelism, the fruit of the
Spirit, and spiritual gifts.
Elder Team Participation
● Engage equally in elder meetings, decision-making, and oversight.
● Identify and mentor potential future elders.
● Model humility, unity, and mutual accountability.
Administration

● In the absence of a Director of Operations or Executive Pastor, coordinate routine
staff administrative tasks on behalf of the Elder Team. This role is functional, not
hierarchical.
Qualifications
He will have the qualifications of an Elder. Other qualifications will be determined by the
Elders.

● Meets biblical standards for elder/pastor (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9), including
being a man of exemplary character.
● Demonstrates a deep personal walk with the Lord and a clear calling to pastoral
ministry.
● Exhibits strong preaching, teaching, and interpersonal skills.

● Bible college or seminary degree (e.g., M.Div.) preferred; relevant ministry experience
required.
● Thrives in a collaborative, elder-led environment with humility and servant
leadership.
Relationships and Accountability The Senior Pastor works in unity with the Elder Team, staff,
and ministry leaders, remaining accountable to the elders for all aspects of ministry.
Evaluation The Elder Team conducts regular reviews of the Senior Pastor's ministry alongside
all other church ministries to ensure alignment with church vision and biblical standards.