What is a pastor? Does going to seminary make you a pastor? Does not going to seminary keep you from being a pastor? Do you have to have a church to be a pastor? Or do you have to be hired to be a pastor?

"But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it ... It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up..."
Eph 4:7,11-12

From this passage, it's clear we all have been given spiritual gifts. And each one of us is to use our gifts to build-up the body. Some of us are pastors.

If you're gifted as a pastor:
1. You have a serious responsibility to pastor Christians. This does not mean you have to start a 501c3 & buy a building. Nor does it mean you have to quit your day job. But Jesus made it clear that will are held accountable for the talents/gifts given us, so you better use your gift for the edification of the body - there is more than one way to do this.

2. You don't have to go to Seminary. Do not underestimate the power of God to train you. The Holy Spirit has gifted you, God has equipped you. This doesn't mean you shouldn't study. You absolutely should know the Word, be walking by the Spirit & understand good doctrine. If you'll be teaching people regularly & pastoring is your full time job, then Seminary is probably a good idea. But God used the "uneducated" disciples to change the world. He uses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. Do not ignore God's gifting just because you think you need a Seminary degree.

3. Seminary does not make you a pastor. Having a degree, knowing Greek & gaining knowledge does not make you a pastor. You may be able to preach a great sermon, this does not make you a pastor. A pastor care's for, counsels and helps his sheep grow to maturity. This requires understanding of people, how they grow, what they need to grow, what they're problems are, what are some solutions, humility & obedience to train them to follow God. Any person that desires the praise of man or to be up front can technically become a "pastor" - don't let that be you.

4. You don't have to have a building or be full time. If you're gifted as a pastor, you can start by encouraging and caring for Christians around you. If God increases your ministry, great, but do not mistake a crowd of people & a non-profit organization for successful obedience to God's pastoral gifting. What matters is helping people to become godly, teaching them good doctrine & training them to love God & love others (this is the fulfillment of the Law). Whatever that looks like, do that.

Clergy VS Laity
There is a very unhealthy distinction in the Church right now between clergy & laity. This is unbiblical and the result is millions of Christians doing nothing for the Kingdom. We are all called to use our gifts to serve & build-up the Body. If you're just chillin as a pew sitter, git off your duff and start using your gift—God will hold you accountable.