Question:  Dear Greg,

            I know the Bible says that the Pastor is responsible for what he teaches us, but does it state anywhere that he is responsible for our soul and salvation?  If yes, please let me know where.

            Thank you for your time,

            Judy

Answer:  Dear Judy,

            The passage you probably have in mind regarding pastoral responsibility is 1 Corinthians 3:10-15.  As far as pastors being responsible for our salvation—or our souls—such an idea is contrary to the gospel.  The gospel is about individual relationships with God, about our personal relationship with him.  The old covenant was all about a nation—but the new covenant is about individuals.  No one is responsible to God “for” us—we alone are responsible.  Many scriptures and passages make that point clear.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht