How do we know that a pastor is called by God?

The calling of a pastor is fundamentally a divine appointment, not an act of self-initiative. Paul instructed Titus to ordain elders based on God's calling, as stated in Titus 1:5. The church recognizes a man’s calling to preach when they see evidence of his faithfulness to God's Word and the gospel message. Just as Samuel was established as a prophet recognized by the nation of Israel (1 Samuel 3:19), a pastor must be acknowledged by the church body as one whom God has chosen. Therefore, a pastor's legitimacy stems from God’s will, not personal ambition.