The Calling vs. The Platform
“For many are called, but few are chosen.” — Matthew 22:14
The Role of a Pastor in a Digital Age
The role of a pastor has always been sacred—one of shepherding, teaching, and leading people into a closer relationship with God. However, with the rise of digital media, a new dynamic has emerged: the content creator pastor. This is a pastor who utilizes social media, YouTube, podcasts, and other online platforms to share sermons, teachings, and inspiration. While this presents an incredible opportunity for evangelism, it also raises important questions: Is there a difference between being called by God and being popular on a platform? Is content creation a ministry tool, or has it become a distraction?
In this chapter, we will explore the difference between a God-ordained calling and the rise of digital platforms, examining both their strengths and potential dangers.
1. Understanding the Calling of a Pastor
1.1 The Biblical Definition of Calling
A pastor’s calling is not self-initiated; it is a divine appointment. The Bible makes it clear that God calls and equips His leaders:
Jeremiah 1:5 – "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
Ephesians 4:11-12 – “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”
A true pastoral calling is rooted in servanthood, humility, and responsibility, not self-promotion or personal gain.
1.2 The Weight of the Pastoral Calling
A pastor is not merely a preacher but a shepherd. Jesus Himself said:
John 10:11 – "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
The primary responsibility of a pastor is not to build a personal brand but to care for the flock (Acts 20:28). This means counseling, interceding, discipling, and being present in the lives of their congregation.
2. The Platform: A Modern Opportunity or a Distraction?
2.1 The Power of Digital Platforms in Ministry
The digital age has transformed how we communicate. Social media allows pastors to reach thousands—if not millions—with a single sermon clip.
Matthew 28:19-20 – "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."
Online platforms can be a tool for fulfilling the Great Commission, allowing pastors to extend their reach beyond the physical church walls.
2.2 The Danger of Prioritizing Popularity Over Purpose
However, digital platforms come with a temptation for validation. Instead of being led by the Holy Spirit, some content creator pastors may begin chasing likes, views, and followers—substituting the weight of their calling for digital influence.
Galatians 1:10 – “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
A true pastor must ask: Am I preaching for impact or for applause?
3. Biblical Examples: Calling vs. Popularity
3.1 Jesus: The Ultimate Example
Jesus had the opportunity to gain immense popularity, yet He never sought after it. Instead, He focused on fulfilling His mission, even when it was unpopular.
John 6:66 – "After this many of His disciples turned back and no longer walked with Him."
Jesus remained faithful to the Father’s will even when people rejected Him.
3.2 Paul: A Servant, Not a Celebrity
Paul, despite being one of the most influential apostles, was not concerned with personal fame.
1 Corinthians 2:1-2 – "And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."
Paul’s focus was on Christ, not personal popularity.
4. Content Creation: A Ministry Tool or a Personal Brand?
The rise of online ministry has led to two types of pastors:
1. Those who use digital platforms as an extension of their calling
2. Those who use digital platforms as their primary source of identity and validation
A content creator pastor must guard their heart against the following dangers:
Preaching what people want to hear instead of what God says (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
Seeking validation from views instead of from God (John 12:43)
Compromising biblical truth for popularity (James 4:4)
5. Challenges of Staying Faithful in a Digital Age
Distraction from true pastoral duties (counseling, prayer, discipleship)
Pressure to stay relevant instead of being faithful
Risk of becoming more of a performer than a shepherd
A pastor must remain rooted in their primary calling and use digital platforms only as a tool, not as a replacement for their ministry.
6. Balancing the Sacred and the Digital
A pastor who chooses to use digital platforms must maintain accountability, humility, and spiritual focus.
6.1 Practical Steps for Staying Grounded
Spend more time in prayer and study than in content creation
Seek accountability from church elders and mentors
Regularly evaluate: Am I still fulfilling my primary pastoral duties?
Keep the focus on discipleship, not just audience growth
7. Encouragement for Pastors: Walking in Divine Calling Amidst Digital Influence
Stay faithful to your calling, regardless of digital trends
Focus on impact, not impressions
Trust that God will elevate those who remain true to Him
Final Scripture
Matthew 6:33 – "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
A pastor’s success is not measured in numbers but in faithfulness to God.
Conclusion
This chapter has explored the fundamental difference between a pastor’s divine calling and the power of digital platforms. While content creation can be an incredible tool for ministry, it should never replace the core duties of a pastor. The challenge for today’s pastors is to remain faithful to their calling, using technology wisely without compromising their God-given mission.
Chapter 2: Shepherding vs. Influencing
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11
Introduction: The Shift from Shepherding to Influencing
The digital age has redefined many aspects of leadership, including pastoral ministry. Traditionally, a pastor was known as a shepherd—one who nurtures, protects, and leads their congregation in spiritual growth. However, with the rise of social media, many pastors have become influencers—gaining large online followings, engaging with global audiences, and shaping Christian thought through digital content.
While influence itself is not inherently bad, it becomes problematic when influence overshadows shepherding. The question is: Has modern pastoral ministry shifted from serving a flock to building a following?
This chapter explores the difference between shepherding and influencing, the biblical role of a pastor, and how to maintain true pastoral integrity in an era of digital influence.
1. The Biblical Role of a Shepherd
1.1 What Does It Mean to Be a Shepherd?
The Bible frequently uses the imagery of shepherds to describe spiritual leadership. A shepherd is not just a teacher or leader but someone who cares, guides, and protects the flock.
Ezekiel 34:2-4 – “Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock.”
John 21:15-17 – Jesus commands Peter three times: “Feed my sheep.”
A true shepherd does not use the sheep for personal gain but feeds, nurtures, and defends them.
1.2 The Responsibilities of a Biblical Shepherd
A pastor’s role as a shepherd includes:
1. Feeding the Sheep (Teaching the Word) – Jeremiah 3:15 – "Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding."
2. Protecting the Sheep (Spiritual Warfare and Intercession) – Acts 20:28 – “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.”
3. Leading the Sheep (Discipleship and Guidance) – Psalm 23:1-3 – "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… He leads me beside the still waters."
4. Caring for the Sheep (Pastoral Care and Counseling) – Luke 15:4-6 – The parable of the lost sheep shows that a shepherd pursues the one who is lost.
A shepherd’s priority is the well-being of the flock, not personal visibility.
