A Pattern to Follow (Numbers 8:23-26)

Bible Passages on Succession: Post 1 of 8

Numbers 8:23-26

Now Yahweh spoke to Moses, saying, "This is what applies to the Levites: from twenty-five years old and upward they shall enter to perform their duty in the service of the tent of meeting. But at the age of fifty years they shall retire from their duty in the service and not serve anymore. They may, however, minister to their brothers in the tent of meeting in order to keep up their responsibility, but they themselves shall perform no service. Thus you shall deal with the Levites concerning their responsibilities."

Summary: This passage captures God's instruction to Moses on how to manage an aging Levite workforce. It emphasizes that their transition into a new role was a shift of influence, not an end to their contribution. Unlike modern views of retirement, this shift highlights the expectation and value of continued contribution in a different capacity.

Key Insight: Retirement doesn't signal the end of your being a Pastor. It does, however, signal a shift in how you express your calling - vocationally. The principle of this shift is that your service to God continues in a new and meaningful way.

Questions for Personal Reflection:

• What will it look like to be “a Pastor” when I am no longer “the Pastor?”
• What are my options for continued contribution after transitioning from my current role?
• What emotions or fears arise when I think about no longer being in my position?

Questions for Boards/Ministry Teams to Discuss:

• How can our church create meaningful roles into which our transitioning leaders can shift?
• What steps can we take to help leaders shift their influence and not feel their contribution has ended?
• How can we, as a church, support leaders as they move into new roles?