Rev. Chris Gordon, Rev. Dr. Daniel Borvan, and Rev. Adam Kaloostian discuss the historical and theological development of the pastoral office, tracing its evolution from the biblical model of a humble, serving presbuteros and episkopos to the centralized authority of the Pope and now the “Super-Pastor”. The hosts contrast this historical overreach with the Reformation’s recovery of the local pastor’s essential role: a minister who is accountable to the elders, serves the congregation in trials and tribulations, and faithfully catechizes the youth. They warn against the modern phenomena of “Big Eva” and the rise of the “Gig Eva” pastor who eschew biblical church government and personal pastoral care for public speaking and wider influence, ultimately urging listeners to recognize the true greatness in the humble, effective ministry of the local church.
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Thanks for this conversation.
I’m always amazed at elders and deacons who minimize the importance of the Church Order.
This from the CRCNA 2025 Church Order:
“Article 85
No church shall in any way lord it over another church, and no office bearer
shall lord it over another office bearer.”