This list was handed out at a TMS graduation luncheon a year or two ago. It may be helpful or thought-provoking for some, both pastors and others. It’s interesting how each mistake has a universal principle behind it that can apply to anyone.
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Attempting to out-MacArthur MacArthur — going beyond reasonable extremes set by John.
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Exhibiting impatience — especially with existing church government.
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Quitting too soon — first opposition with the pastor.
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Trying to make other churches exact replicas of Grace Community Church.
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Attempting to be John F. MacArthur III in every aspect of ministry.
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Studying too much, to the exclusion of adequate shepherding.
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Failing to realize one must earn respect as a pastor by being a pastor.
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Believing that time at Grace Community Church and The Master’s Seminary guarantees a growing, vibrant church and then becoming greatly discouraged when that does not happen.
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Unwilling to start in a small and/or unimpressive ministry — “God owes me” or “I deserve” mentality.
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Making major doctrinal changes in ministry that stray from what was taught at The Master’s Seminary.
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Violating promises made or deviating from expectations given during the candidating process.
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Unwilling to accept people as they are and let God change them into what they ought to be.
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Trying to act like a veteran pastor in one’s rookie ministry.
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Underestimating the value of being a “peace-maker.”
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Not managing one’s family well.
davidagundersen.com 
16. losing the disciplined and structured life that you were forced to adopt throughout seminary.
I would say that that would be one of my biggest struggles since graduating.
yikes! that’s a GREAT list (for all of us, not just the TMC guys…but also for the TMS guys :) )
Gunner,
I’ve lost your email address and was hoping to get together with you while in town over the next few days.
Joe
Very thought provoking!