the search committee should make it clear that they want a pastor who leads by consensus and by example, not by command or by coercion (1 Peter 5:3). Keep in mind that many abusive leaders take positions because of the power and control they afford. They want to know in advance that they will be the one in charge, that they will call the shots, somewhat like a head football coach who makes the big decisions and hires and fires whomever he pleases. Sure, they may give lip service to a plurality of elders and mutual submission to the brethren. But at the end of the day, they just want to be in
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