Lead Pastor

Full job description

Water’s Edge Church in Ogden, Iowa is seeking a new lead pastor.  Water’s Edge has a history of investing in the Kingdom of God even to the ends of the earth from small town Iowa.

Water’s Edge is a rural, multi-generational, nondenominational, Bible believing church. Our church is committed to the authority of Scripture, the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and the mission of making disciples. We are in a season of renewed vision and intentional structure, supported by elder leadership and a committed body of believers who desire to grow in unity, faith, and service. We are prayerfully seeking a Lead Pastor who will faithfully shepherd our flock, teach the Word with clarity and conviction, and walk closely with God in both personal and public life.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Spiritual and Personal Character

• A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, rooted in personal prayer, God’s Word, and obedience to God’s will.
• A person of humility, integrity, and authenticity – gentle yet courageous, willing to speak the truth in love.
• Led by the Holy Spirit and submitted to the authority of God’s Word.
• Demonstrates spiritual maturity and emotional intelligence in relationships and decision-making.
• Honors his family commitments and lives with transparency and faithfulness in both home and ministry.

Theological and Ministry Commitments

• Committed to expository, gospel-centered preaching that equips believers for ministry and challenges believers to live out their faith.
• Values both theological depth and practical application, aiming to form disciples rather than merely inform listeners.
• Understands and embraces the Great Commission, and lives to lay down his life for the sheep.
• Has a heart for the local and global church, especially the missionary efforts that Waters Edge Church supports.

Leadership and Shepherding

• A shepherd-leader who knows, prays for and walks with his people.
• Willingly leads in key life moments of the congregation – including weddings, funerals, hospital visits and counseling – as part of faithfully helping to shepherd the flock.
• Equips and empowers others for ministry, rather than carrying all responsibilities alone.
• Works collaboratively with staff, volunteers and ministry leaders with mutual respect and accountability.
• Follows the biblical model of church leadership: a plurality of elders, including the Lead Pastor, who work together to meet the needs of the body and discern God’s will for the church.
• Comfortable navigating both structure and flexibility – helping to strengthen ministry systems while allowing for organic growth and Spirit-led movement.
• Leads with vision, discernment, and steady dependence on God.
• Agrees with and supports the stated doctrines and beliefs of Water’s Edge Church and is committed to the whole council of God’s Word.
• Promotes, prioritizes and nurtures people having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Experience and Qualifications

• Licensed and ordained as a minister of the gospel, and a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies or equivalent.
• Preferably has a minimum of five years pastoral or ministry leadership experience, though spiritual maturity and gifting will weigh more heavily than the resume alone.
• Demonstrates strong preaching and communication skills.
• Experienced in discipling leaders, facilitating a healthy church culture, and shepherding through seasons of change.

Relational and Cultural Fit

• Relationally approachable and invested in a church family that values community connection and community service.
• Joyfully engages with all generations – from children to seniors – and encourages inter-generational ministry.
• Values strong, biblically grounded leadership and is willing to walk alongside others as a fellow labor in the Gospel.

Please scroll through the pages of the profile link below and prayerfully consider whether God would have you to explore this position with us:

To be considered for this position, please complete the application to include your testimony of salvation, resume with references and other background information related to the position.