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.

We are commited to providing biblically based teaching and opportunities for spiritual growth in a non-traditional worship setting while actively seeking to impact our community.

WHO ARE WE

• A non-denominational church devoted to God, our families, and our community. 
• Our mission is to be a LIGHT in the darkness.
• We are called to STAND IN THE GAP for our families, community and beyond.
• We desire to love and live in such a way that those who do not know God would want to know Him.​​​
• We believe in sharing God's Holy Word, standing for what is right, and praying for those who are far from God.
• We are a place of worship where you can deepen your relationship with Jesus, connect with other believers, and make a difference in our community with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.