Bible Dictionary
PASTOR
A pastor is literally a shepherd or feeder of sheep. Figuratively, the term refers to a minister entrusted with caring for and guiding a Christian congregation.
Definition
A pastor is literally a shepherd or feeder of sheep. Figuratively, a pastor is a minister entrusted with caring for and guiding a Christian congregation.
Biblical Usage
The biblical word is used literally and figuratively. In Ephesians 4:11, pastors are included among Christ’s gifts to the church. The King James Version also uses the term in several passages of Jeremiah for those responsible for God’s people.
Historical Background
The term comes from Hebrew and Greek words meaning shepherd or feeder of sheep. Its congregational meaning refers to a minister appointed over a Christian congregation.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>pas'-ter (ro`eh; poimen; literally, a helper, or feeder of the sheep (the King James Version Jer 2:8; 3:15; 10:21; 12:10; 17:16; 22:22; 23:1,2, and in Eph 4:11, the King James Version and the Revised Version (British and American))): Besides the literal sense the word has now a figurative meaning and refers to the minister appointed over a congregation. This latter meaning is recognized in the translation of the King James Version.</p><p>See MINISTRY.</p>