The first chapter of The Country Parson beautifully lays out the dignity and duty of the pastor. Herbert describes the pastor as the deputy of Christ on earth. The pastor serves the Lord’s purpose in sanctifying the people of God.
Man fell from the state in which he was originally made via disobedience. The Lord had given mankind His good law. Yet, Adam, as the head of the human race, disobeyed and brought all of his children into a state of disobedience with him (Romans 5:19).
“For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.”
God did not let His creation remain in the state of sin and misery in which mankind was cast. He sent His only begotten Son, Christ Jesus, as the glorious instrument for restoring man to a right relationship with his Holy Creator.
This restoration was achieved by Christ and His crosswork. Christ, the Head of His people, lived a life of perfect obedience and died in their place, securing their reconciliation with the God they had offended by their rebellion (Ephesians 2:16). The hostility of man towards God was completely dealt with through the death of a sinless Savior.
After completing the work of reconciliation, Christ ascended back into glory (Hebrews 1:3). When He ascended, His people were not left to wander aimlessly. It pleased Him to place deputies in His place (Ephesians 4:11).
The dignity of the office of the pastor is displayed first in that the office is a gift that Christ gave to His church. Secondly, the office is to do that which Christ did, mirroring and serving as the present caretaker of Christ’s flock. The Chief Shepherd is at the right hand of the Father interceding for His people. The undershepherd is in the midst of the flock laboring for the sanctification of Christ’s sheep.
Pastor, have you grown weary? Remember the dignity of the office to which you are called. Your office has been established by Christ and you serve at His good pleasure. From the dignity of this office, the ongoing duty of the pastor is made clear. Do what Christ did. Teach the truth of God for doctrine and life. Serve the church until Christ’s return.