2024 Pastor Profile

We seek a shepherd, gifted in leadership, fervent in Christ, strong in the teaching of God's Word, and devoted to disciplining and ministering to our community, congregation, and our staff.

Education, Experience, and Background

• Ministry holding to Baptist teachings and personal beliefs aligning with the 1963 Baptist Faith and Message

• No preference on years of experience leading a congregation

• No preference on years of experience leading a staff

• Must agree to and pass criminal, and sexual misconduct background checks

How our Pastor PREACHES – 2 Timothy 4:2

• Is committed to the teaching and preaching of God's Word, with the Bible used as the primary source in sermon derivation, interpretation, and delivery

• Avoids the inclusion of personal "soap-boxes" in all preaching

How our pastor LEADS – Act 20:28

• Has an evident unequivocal calling to the ministry of a lead pastor and to our church

• Someone with organizational leadership with clear, straightforward, and effective vision-casting for the culture and future of the church

• Someone who's supervision would achieve Biblically-grounded results while honoring the uniqueness and dignity of all staff

• Is personally organized, punctual, and time-aware

• Communicates well, with clarity, and in a timely manner

• Receives and gives feedback with both truth and grace

• Takes an interest in the professional, personal, and spiritual growth of their staff

• Someone that shows interest, support, encouragement, and participate in ministry events and department activities within the church

• Someone willing to lead alongside the Deacon body and key committees in their duties

• Consistently promotes a Christ-centered unity within the church

How our pastor LIVES – 1 Timothy 3:2-7

• Has a moral reputation above reproach and maintains a lifestyle aligning with 1 Tim 3:2-7

• Tithes and has a history of good financial sense, including the prudent management of both personal/family finances and church/ministry finances

• If married the pastor's wife must have a reputation of maintaining a lifestyle consistent with 1 Tim 3:11

How our pastor SERVES – 1 Peter 5:2-3

• Preaches faithfully and regularly to our congregation

• Oversees the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper

• Remains approachable and available for counsel to all church staff and members

• Ensures provision for the physical and emotional care of church members (pastoral care)

Preferred Personal Traits

• A person eager to serve the community of Sweetwater and settle here for a significant season

• Has an agreeable disposition with a sense of humor not demeaning to others

• Has an empathetic and humble demeanor

• Possesses a strong sense of courage and conviction without presenting himself judgmental or dogmatic towards others

• Is able and willing to speak Biblically about relevant cultural issues

• Maintains relationships outside the church to represent the church well locally