Principle Function

The Pastor is responsible for providing vision, leadership, and overall direction in order to carry out the critical functions of evangelism, discipleship, ministry, fellowship and worship consistent with the mission of Greenfield First Baptist Church.

Mission Statement of GFBC

Because we have been redeemed in the blood of Jesus Christ, and as members of the body of Christ, we are called to believe, love, go and grow, share and care, obey and be active for the kingdom of God on earth. (Colossians 2:13-15)

What We Believe 

• We, at First Baptist Church of Greenfield, believe that God is the Supreme Being, author of our salvation and the creator.

• We also believe that Jesus Christ is God’s Holy Son and Savior of the world. 

• We believe the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity/Comforter and is that which convicts us.

• We believe the Bible is the inspired word of God and our instruction book.

• We believe that Baptism is the outward expression of inward change, and that the Lord’s Supper is done in remembrance of Christ’s death.

• We believe the human condition is lost and is in need of salvation.

• The purpose, place and mission of the church is to minister to a lost and dying world.

• The role of the laity is to support the church, pastor, and actively promote the gospel.

• The role of the minister is to be the shepherd of the flock, to preach according to the scripture, to practice what he preaches and to care for the members of his flock (visitation).

• Our relationship to the ecumenical witness is to follow the Lord Jesus Christ and to witness for Him.

Qualifications for the Pastor (as defined by God’s Word)

• Above reproach: Immorality charged against him must not be substantiated. (1 Timothy 3:2, 1 Peter 3:15-16)

• Faithful to his spouse: One who has one spouse of the opposite sex and is faithful to them alone.  If single, one who still lives under the Lord’s command that relations are reserved for godly defined marriage alone. (1 Timothy 3:2, Hebrews 13:4, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20)

• Sober-minded: Mentally and emotionally stable. (1 Timothy 3:2, Romans 8:5-6)

• Self-controlled: In control of one’s self even amidst turmoil. (1Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:8, James 1:19-21, Proverbs 29:11, Proverbs 16:5, Titus 2:11-12)

• Hospitable:  Welcome and Inviting. (1 Timothy 3:2, Hebrews 13:1-2, 1 Peter 4:9)

• One who holds firmly to the truth: One who is able to teach, encourage others, and refute improper and unsound doctrine. (Titus 1:9, Titus 1:10-16)

• Not a Drunkard:  Able to control one’s intake of an intoxicating beverage.  One who is in control of oneself at all times. (1 Timothy 3:3, 1 Timothy 3:8. Titus 1:7, Ephesians 5:15-18, Romans 13:12-14)

• Not Violent:  Able to control one’s temper and actions when angry. (Romans 12:17-19, Ephesians 4:26-27, James 1:19-20)

• Gentle:  Able to exercise discipline internally and externally without being offensive or abusive. (I Timothy 3:3, 1 Peter 4:10)

• Not Quarrelsome: Not one who looks to argue over non-essentials but strives for unity (1 Timothy 3:3,  1 Peter 4:10)

• Not a Lover of Money: One who has a godly perspective on the materials of this world. One who is fiscal content, no matter their current financial situation (1 Timothy 3:3, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, Hebrews 13:5, Luke 16:13-15)

• Must Manage their Household Well: One who leads, loves, provides for, and oversees their family, both spiritually and materially. ( 1 Timothy 3:4-5, 1 Timothy 5:8, Luke 16:10-12)

• Not a recent convert: Whenever possible, a Pastor is to be a mature believer, having numerous years behind him in his relationship with Christ. (1 Timothy 3:6, 1 Corinthians 8:2)

• Well Thought of by Outsiders:  One who is respected and has a good reputation in the community as well as in the Church.  (Matthew 5:14-16)

• Demonstrates the fruit of the Spirit:  One who demonstrates a life consistent with growth and maturity in the Holy Spirit. A9 Galatians 5:22-26, Acts 6:3, Colossians 3:12-14)

General Assumptions

• The Pastor will seek to abide in the continuing presence, guidance and leadership of the Holy Spirit. The Pastor believes in the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, as written is the inspired word of God and the all-sufficient basis of doctrine in practice.

• Before receiving his call to the ministry, the Pastor received and responded to the Lord’s invitation to follow Him as a Christian. The Pastor will use all the enabling means of grace to grow as a Christian, and to develop his God-given gifts and his professional capabilities, skills, disciplines and standards.

Responsibilities

The following is a list of six ministry gifts identified by the church body they see the Pastor leading or directing the congregation to further our ministry:

• Preaching – Providing ministry through the spoken word by taking time to study, prepare and reflect on the Word and present a message that is relevant and encouraging.

• Interpreting the Faith – Communicating a clear and relevant understanding of the Bible and theology for Christian living today.

• Evangelism – Having a heart to see people come to Christ.

• Leadership – Recognizing and articulating God’s vision and assisting the congregation in its implementation.

• Visitation – Having a relational presence with church members and others in their homes, at work and other settings.

• Church Growth – Developing a vision for ministry to increase the membership of the church and his growing kingdom here on earth.

Next Steps:

Interested candidates may email a resume to: pastorsearch fbcg25@gmail.com.