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What’s Up:
Church leaders: enough with the mistaken notion that hiring a second generalist will save you – your ministry needs specialists, not another jack-of-all-trades. Stop hiring generalists.
So What:
This matters because small and medium churches can’t throw money at roles that don’t move the needle. Your resources deserve experts who can connect with your target audience and propel your mission forward.
The Point Is:
• Focus on Specialization: Your church thrives when every role is filled by someone with a clear, defined expertise, not a generic copy of the pastor.
• Delegate with Precision: Pastors are called to lead, not to do everything. Stick with your biblically assigned role and empower gifted members to handle other ministry areas.
• Maximize Impact: Investing in specialists—from worship leaders to connection experts – delivers a far greater return on your resources than a one-size-fits-all hire ever could.
• Engage the Unchurched: If your target is unchurched young adults, bring on a worship leader who can create an inviting, vibrant atmosphere that turns visitors into committed participants.
And … ?
Let’s face it: hiring a second generalist is like trying to fix a leaky roof with duct tape. The New Testament is crystal clear: pastors are to focus on leadership and vision while the congregation brings its diverse gifts to the table (Ephesians 4:11–13 and Acts 6:1–7). When churches chase the idea of an associate pastor to offload responsibilities, they’re not solving problems; they’re diluting their focus. Instead of throwing money at a generic role, your limited resources are better spent on experts who excel in specific ministry functions.
If your audience is young and unchurched, then your second hire should be a worship leader who knows how to raise a band and create a setting that speaks directly to them. Alternatively, if your focus is on connecting people, hire a true expert at building relationships – someone who can turn first-time visitors into lifelong participants and active neighborhood missionaries. Pastors, remember: you’re the generalist, the visionary. Delegate the rest to specialists who can drive real, measurable growth in your church.
