There are positions we have on issues that we should hold lightly, without letting them become points of contention. Pastors and congregations grow and mature over time. “Complete patience and teaching” are a part of the pastoral charge (2 Timothy 4:2).

I have pastored two churches. I have also been a candidate for two pastoral vacancies during my ministry.

I was not a part of the search process of the first church I served. My name was submitted for nomination from the floor during the call meeting. The congregation unexpectedly selected me as its next pastor.

I was initially asked to fill the pulpit one Sunday at the church I currently serve. I was later asked to allow my name to be submitted as a pastoral candidate for the church. The church called me to be its pastor several months later.

The other church I was a candidate for did not call me. There were more than a thousand people in the call meeting. I was the only candidate. A whopping eight people voted for me. Eight people!

I was not disappointed when I heard the news of the church’s decision. I knew the church would not call me. I even tried to withdraw my name before the vote. I wanted to avoid embarrassment for everyone involved – especially me!

Several trusted mentors recommended me to the church. This gave me an inside track in the process. But several doctrinal matters became an issue.

My wife told me she would follow me anywhere the Lord sent me. But she insisted she could not support a move if I was not clear beforehand about my convictions. So I agreed to submit positions papers to the pulpit committee. I was clear and straightforward about what I believe.

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