EP 293 – Setting Boundaries and Expectations for Bi-Vocational Pastors
In this month’s “Bi-Vo Bros” episode, JimBo Stewart sits down again with Matt MacNaughton and Chris Snider to unpack the fourth healthy characteristic of a bi-vocational pastor: clearly setting and expressing realistic expectations and boundaries.
Serving as a bi-vocational pastor means juggling ministry, family, and other vocational responsibilities—all while resisting the pressure to say “yes” to everything. The guys discuss why boundaries matter theologically, how to communicate them effectively, and how to maintain them even when others don’t respect them. They also explore the importance of protecting your family from unrealistic ministry demands, navigating church expectations with humility, and making sure technology works for you instead of against you.
From practical tips like using “Do Not Disturb” settings and location-based phone filters, to shepherding wisdom on triaging emergencies, this episode offers both spiritual and strategic guidance for thriving in the long haul of bi-vocational ministry.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why boundaries are essential for your spiritual health, family life, and ministry effectiveness
- How to communicate expectations without sounding like you’re trying to avoid work
- Ways to use technology to protect your focus and availability
- How to handle people who ignore your boundaries
- What realistic expectations for your spouse and kids should look like
- How to navigate long-standing church culture and shift expectations over time
Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
- Search “bi-vocational characteristics” on the Replant Bootcamp website for past episodes and resources
- Ephesians 4:12 – Equipping the saints for the work of ministry
- NAMB Replant resources for bi-vocational pastors coming soon
bi-vo bros, bi-vocational, bi-vocational characteristics, Chris Snider, Matt MacNaughton
