The Biblical Role of the Pastor's wife - South African Theological ...

pressure because one becomes an example to those who are already called
to be examples. As the Apostle Paul said, “Follow my example, 23 as I follow
the example of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1), so too those in Christian leadership have
a greater responsibility to model the same directive to the believers around
them. It is my recommendation that each church reviews the visibility of the
pastor’s wife as an important issue of discussion and consider very clearly as
to how she will influence the congregation. It may not be necessary to
formulate a specific job description as she may not be working within the
church, but she and the leadership would need to understand exactly what
expectations she may face. Thus affording every opportunity to speak of her
role, although not a biblically distinguished list of duties, but a leadership
decision as to what is expected of her.
Most wives indicated throughout their interview that their primary role
or responsibility was to be a helpmate to their husband. Those wives who still
had children at home made it clear that their time was to be devoted to their
family and any church related activities would come later. A biblical response
for a wife and mother would be to firstly grow her knowledge and identity in
Christ, secondly, meet the needs of her husband and family and then finally
be involved in other activities. How then can the church respond to the
pastor’s wife and the needs of her family?
4.2. Recommendations: Church’s Response
There are a number of practical ways in with the church can respond to
the needs of the pastoral family, as a source of friendship, encouragement
and support. Hoge and Wenger (2005:198) indicate that the second major
reason pastors leave the pastorate is a lack of support primarily shown by the
church leadership. This is a sad reality for many men (and women) serving
the local church. How important it is for the church, and more specifically the
church leadership, to show support for their pastor and family in times of
conflict, burnout and victory.
23 The NASB indicates, “be imitators”.
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