We are First Baptist Church Garden Lakes, a member of the Southern Baptist Convention and part of the Estrella Baptist Association; a congregation of believers of Jesus Christ located in Avondale, Arizona since 1980. We are in search of God's next called Lead Pastor.

Please submit references and at least 3 video or audio sermons with your resume.

General

The Lead Pastor is the spiritual leader of the church. His primary responsibility, to the Lord and the church, is to proclaim the gospel and teach the Bible through expositional preaching of the Word. He is to be engaged in pastoral care, providing supervisory and administrative leadership in all areas of congregational life including oversight of paid and volunteer staff. The Lead Pastor, together with the Elders, shall equip the saints for work of ministry, leading by example a robust prayer life, and the making of disciples by evangelism and shepherding to maturity those who believe. A full-time or part-time vocational employee may fill this role.

Qualifications

First and foremost, the Lead Pastor must demonstrate the character and teaching abilities described in passages Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7. The chosen man shall be committed to shepherding as defined in 1 Peter 5:1-5.

The Lead Pastor must have previous pastoral experience in a similar role which includes preaching experience, effective leadership, and ministry development.

The Lead Pastor should have a deep understanding of and commitment to the Bible, orthodox Christian theology, and the Southern Baptist Faith and Message 2000.

The Lead Pastor should have a theological or ministerial degree from an accredited seminary or equivalent collegiate education.

The Lead Pastor must pass a background check prior to employment.

Responsibilities

In cooperation with the elders, the Lead Pastor will oversee the administration and management of church operations, including budgeting, financial planning, Christian preschool, and personnel management in the church office.

The Lead Pastor will lead in planning worship liturgy to include expositional preaching, prayer, Scripture readings, congregational singing, and the ordinances.

The Lead Pastor will collaborate with other Elders to conduct membership interviews, recommend candidates for the church's affirmation of membership, and assist transitioning members with finding a new church home.

The Lead Pastor will provide leadership to situations of church discipline, in accordance with Scripture (e.g., Matthew 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 5:1-5).

The Lead Pastor will facilitate and encourage spiritual growth and discipleship through the development and implementation of small group ministries, Bible studies, and other educational programs.

In cooperation with the elders, the Lead Pastor will provide spiritual leadership and pastoral care to the congregation, visiting of the sick, counseling those in need, and fostering a culture of faith, love, and service.

The Lead Pastor must abide by the church constitution & bylaws.