Even after all the results were in from our study, I was hesitant to write about the critical importance of pastors, because of the tremendous pressures already placed on them. All they need is another "expert" telling the world that the church rises and falls on their leadership.

Nevertheless, the data was overwhelming. The formerly unchurched told us 968 times that some factor related to the pastor played an important role in bringing them to Christ and to the church! Remember, our interviews were conducted with 353 people, so something about the pastor was noted almost three times per interview.

The expectations seem overwhelming. How can any one pastor be a great preacher, communicator and dynamic personality while still being available to interact with the unchurched? Is it possible to reach the unchurched without having Superman as pastor?

Preaching

In a previous work, I noted that more than 90 percent of pastors in America spend only two hours per week in sermon preparation for each message preached. Perhaps there is considerable room for improvement in the preaching and communication skills of many pastors.

The failure to connect with the unchurched may be a reflection of some pastors' lack of time in the study of the Word or sermon preparation. Some pastors could become better communicators if they spent more time on preaching than other matters.

The leaders of the early church in Jerusalem told the congregation that they would not wait on the tables of widows because they would be neglecting their primary calling of prayer and ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4). Today's pastors need to follow their example.

Personal interaction

Regarding the issue of the unchurched desiring personal interaction, their demands are not really that great. A telephone call, an opportunity to be in a group the pastor leads, or a brief visit in almost any context is all the unchurched seek.

Preparation

Another issue church leaders must address is the preparation of pastors for ministry. After hearing the formerly unchurched clearly articulate their desire to learn deep doctrinal truths, I am convinced that training in the classical disciplines is a clear requisite. In today's pluralistic society, pastors must be equipped in the Bible, theology, apologetics and church history.

Most evangelical seminaries and Bible colleges do at least an adequate job in training pastors in the classical disciplines. Where many institutions fall short, however, is in preparing ministers in preaching, leadership and interpersonal skills. The equipping body of the 21st century must address these critical issues if pastors are to be adequately prepared.

Perhaps the church does not need Superman to be the pastor. But the church does need someone who is authentic, who preaches the Word without reservation, who is a person of prayer, and who has basic leadership and interpersonal skills. The job description seems wieldy and insurmountable. But we serve the God of all possibilities and all strength! With God pastors can be the servant the church needs to be healthy.