One of the requirements that Paul gave Timothy is that a
pastor should not be “a novice (1 Timothy 3:6).” Does that mean that a pastor cannot be a
rookie? If so, then how much experience is required in order for someone to be
a pastor? After all, everyone has to start somewhere.
The word that Paul used for novice means “newly planted.”
Anyone who has ever done any gardening or landscaping understands that
something newly planted cannot be left alone to fend for itself. It requires
extra attention and care. You have to watch it to see if it needs water, more
sunlight, shade from sunlight, fertilizer, or protection from the cold. You might
need to stake it up, pull some weeds, or spray some bugs.
As the plant matures it will not require as much attention;
it will be able to survive more on its own.
That is the goal of any believer; new converts are new
plants, or novices. They need to be looked after and cared for until they
mature. New converts are not yet ready to be pastors.
Who are you investing in? What new plant are you caring for
as they mature into what God wants them to be? That young Christian could be
the next pastor, missionary, or great worker for the kingdom.
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