Encouragement from Quinquagenarians

by Matthew Fletcher

Matthew Fletcher is the senior pastor of Webster Bible Church in Webster, New York.

January 28, 2025

Recently I grabbed lunch with a few other pastors in their fifties. Call us the quinquagenarians club. One asked, “How are you different from your younger self?” It was amazing to see how readily we agreed with one another’s answers. Afterwards, I jotted them down to encourage younger pastors.

I’ve summarized each response in first-person singular to capture the personal tone of our conversation. In other words, the following answers are not verbatim but a loose paraphrase of each pastor’s input.

“I’m Calmer”

As a younger pastor, I became more easily stressed by problems. A critical remark would rattle me and weigh on my mind for days. A disciplinary matter would keep me up at night and distract me from my other duties. Budget shortfalls, building repairs, and big decisions would wind me tighter than jungle gym screws!

Yet, the Lord has seen me through every trial. Nowadays, when a new problem or crisis surfaces, I think, “[The Lord] has delivered us . . . and he will deliver us. We have put our hope in him that he will deliver us again” (2 Cor. 1:10). I’m calmer than I used to be!

“I’m More Catholic”

I went to a conservative, fundamentalist seminary that is narrow and exclusive in its associations with other evangelical leaders and institutions. So I began my ministry in much the same way. But over time, I met various pastors from other backgrounds who loved the Lord, proclaimed his Word, and were bearing fruit for God.

As I began to expand my circle of Christian fellowship and collaboration, I realized there was much to be gained in terms of mutual encouragement and gospel advancement. I thank God for the endearing friendships and enduring partnerships I have enjoyed these last several years.11 . To read more on this topic, see Phil Newton’s article, “Fundamentalism May Feel Safe, But It’s Shortsighted.” Church Matters, vol. 3: Catholicity (9Marks, 2023).

“I’m More Efficient”

When I was younger, I was more energetic. I was up for any challenge and could tackle multiple things at once. But the older I get, the more I feel my energy diminishing.

Yet what I’ve lost in energy, I’ve gained in efficiency. I’m able to get things done with less time and effort. For instance, sermon prep used to take me twenty hours, but now it takes me about half that time, and I’m preaching better sermons! The cumulative effect of studying and communicating God’s Word has made me a more competent preacher. I’m also better at managing time, prioritizing tasks, and delegating responsibilities.

So, younger brother-pastors, take heart.

Be calm and look to Christ. He is ever faithful and will see you through whatever trial you’re facing.

Be catholic in spirit. Gospel-centered friendships and ministry partnerships will enrich your soul and expand your influence for the good of the church and the glory of God.

Become more efficient and effective by consistently doing the right things and doing them right. You’ll find that the benefits of experience will multiply over time.

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