When Local Pastors Get Along

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!  (Psalms 133:1)

One of the greatest joys of a pastor is to have a harmonious relationship and close Christian fellowship with other pastors and churches in his community.  At least, it is for me.  There is a sense of strength that comes to a pastor when he knows that other pastors are truly dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ and are striving to make the community aware of His saving grace.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case.  Often, there is isolation among pastors, jealously, rivalry, lack of communication, and misunderstanding.  Sometimes we even see other pastors as adversaries and enemies.  This brings division to the work of God and is a big win for Satan.

I have always made an effort to be acquainted with fellow pastors in our community.  Over the course of time I have even become close friends with some; they are friendships I value a great deal.  Recently, I made friends with another.  These relationships are truly iron sharpening iron.  We are co-laborers in the same vineyard – the Lord’s vineyard, not our own – even though our ministry styles are different.

These pastors are my colleagues, not competitors. 

A minister of the gospel has a responsibility to initiate unity among the brethren, not just refrain from negative attitudes and hurtful actions.  Paul urged the church at Ephesus to “…. endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3).

I love pastors.  Here’s why:  On any given Sunday morning across America, more people will attend church services than will attend all major sporting events for an entire year combined!

No, that’s not a typo. I wrote it correctly.

The pastors of all these churches influence a myriad of believers, who are living healthy lives because of their godly example. Often their work is not even acknowledged. Yet this world would be much worse off without them.