OVERVIEW
First Baptist Church is one of the oldest biblical churches in the rural, northwest corner of New Jersey’s Sussex County. Spanning 190 years of history, the church exists today as a testimony of God’s faithfulness and tender care.
First Baptist is a Bible-based, gospel-focused Baptist church of around 63 members with approximately 76 people in attendance on a Sunday morning. Though in a time of transition while seeking a new pastor the church remains strong and united, with a solid core of committed members and attendees. The current leadership (elders, deacons and trustees) is comprised of good, capable men who are humbly seeking to lead the congregation through this time of transition. The outlook of the church is optimistic as the members have embraced the current situation in the sovereign purposes of God, firmly believing that the Lord has even better things in store for the next phase of church life.
A strength of our congregation is the maturity of the members. Quite a few in the church have been Christians for many years, and also have a solid grasp of the Bible and essential Christian doctrines.
As is true of any church, there are needs within the body. Because it is an older congregation there is a need for casting a vision to build the next generation of FBC members. The church leadership is committed to attracting and nurturing younger believers and their families.
DESCRIPTION
The Pastor, along with the other Elders, shall oversee and conduct the worship services and administer the ordinances of the church. He shall watch over the spiritual interests of the church and shepherd the flock through preaching, teaching, and counseling, seeking to apply the Scriptures in both public and private shepherding contexts. He shall lead by word and by example, with patience and faithfulness, and shall be responsible for the general development and welfare of the church.
In keeping with 1 Timothy 3:1-7, the Pastor will set his highest priority upon the required character traits while giving constant attention to the growth and development of his gifts and abilities as a pastor. He must be a man who is devoted to God, to prayer and the study of His Word.
POSITION DETAILS
Education: BS/BA degree in Biblical studies or like a major. MDiv from an evangelical seminary preferred.
Experience: A minimum of 5 years in church leadership and preaching experience is preferred.
Accountability: Elder board (as a co-equal) in matters of faith, scripture, and leadership. To the church membership with regards to church constitutional government.
Direct Reports: Church secretary
Align to: FBC Constitution
Work schedule: Five days on two days off per week
Remunerations: Salary, parsonage, paid vacation time; health care allowance, professional development and book stipend, IRA, and travel expenses. Parsonage: Suitable for a large family – pastor, wife and children to reside in. The house is a stately, yet modernized late 1800’s Greek Revival style home. It has five bedrooms, three full baths and a half bath. The master bedroom has a private bath and adjoining sitting room. There is a large kitchen and dining room. In addition, the house features a large study. Utilities and internet service included.