Introduction:
We will explore a question that resonates deeply with anyone in ministry or those feeling the stirrings of God's call: *What is the difference between being called to be a pastor and being trained for a position?* We'll examine this question from every angle, using Scripture as our foundation.
Note: My greeting awaits you at the end of this message.
1. The Call of God: A Spiritual Mandate:
Being called to ministry is a divine action. We see this in Jeremiah 1:5, where God says, "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart." God's calling is profoundly personal and direct.
Illustration: The Story of Moses:
Moses didn't apply for the job of leading the Israelites out of Egypt; God called him through a burning bush (Exodus 3). Initially, Moses felt unqualified and even reluctant, but God assured him that his calling was ordained by divine purpose. His calling wasn't based on his credentials but on God's plan for him.
**Application**: Just like Moses, those called by God may not always feel ready, but God equips those He calls. This deep sense of purpose sustains a pastor through the inevitable hardships of ministry.
2. Training and Preparation: A Scriptural Expectation:
2 Timothy 2:15 instructs us to *"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who correctly handles the word of truth." Training is essential, and preparation equips us with the tools to handle the Word of God rightly and serve His people effectively.
Illustration: Paul's Preparation:
Paul was uniquely equipped for ministry through formal theological study and Spiritual preparation. Before preaching, Paul spent time in Arabia, allowing God to shape and refine him (Galatians 1:15-18). Even with all his knowledge, Paul needed this season of Spiritual preparation.
**Application**: Training equips pastors to communicate and lead effectively, but authentic preparation comes when we allow God to mold us in times of solitude, prayer, and reliance on Him.
3. The Danger of Positional Ministry:
While training is essential, there is a danger in treating pastoral ministry as merely a profession or position. Jesus contrasts the true shepherd with a hired hand in John 10:12-13. The hired hand flees when danger comes, but the true shepherd stays to protect the flock because he cares deeply for the sheep.
**Illustration: The Hireling and the Shepherd**
A pastor motivated by a calling is like the good shepherd, willing to stay and protect the flock at all costs. However, if someone seeks ministry only for personal gain or status, they become like the hired hand, fleeing when things get tough.
**Application**: A pastoral position should not be sought for personal gain. Instead, ministry should flow out of a deep love for God's people and a desire to lead them in truth and grace.
4. Balancing Calling and Training: A Biblical Perspective:
David's Example: David was called to be king at a young age but didn't immediately ascend to the throne. Instead, God prepared him through years of training and leadership in difficult circumstances. David's preparation involved tending sheep and leading men in the wilderness (1 Samuel 16, 22).
**Illustration: David's Anointing and Training**
Though David had the calling to be king, his preparation was essential to shape him into the leader God desired. David's training allowed him to develop the character, humility, and leadership skills necessary for the role.
**Application**: Like David, pastors today must combine their divine calling with a willingness to undergo training and preparation. God often uses seasons of difficulty to prepare His leaders for greater responsibility.
Conclusion: The Call vs. The Position:
Ultimately, being called a pastor is a Spiritual mandate, while training for a position involves learning practical skills. The balance is critical—**a calling without preparation may falter**, but **training without a calling will lack Spiritual depth**.
We need the divine call that sustains us through trials and the training that equips us to serve the people God entrusts to our care.
Altar Call:
Today, you may feel a stirring in your heart—a sense that God is calling you to do something more. Whether it's to pastoral ministry, leadership, or even just a deeper relationship with Christ, the first step is always the same: surrender to His calling.
Altar Call Prayer:
"Father, we thank You for Your divine call on our lives. We know You have a purpose for us, whether in pastoral ministry or our everyday walk with You. Help us to hear Your voice clearly and to be willing to step out in faith, trusting that You will equip us for whatever You have called us to do. For those seeking Your calling today, give them clarity and confidence. And those who need Your saving grace may come forward, surrendering their hearts to You."
The Sinner's Prayer:
If you're here today and you've never accepted Jesus as your Savior, now is the time. I invite you to pray this prayer with me:
"Dear Jesus, I know I am a sinner and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me. In Your Name, Amen."
Closing Words:
If you prayed that prayer, know you are now part of God's family. You have answered the greatest calling of all—the call to follow Jesus. Let's continue to seek His will in our lives, whether in ministry or our everyday walk with Him.
God bless you!
Greetings, dear friends,
I want to thank each of you for taking the time to read these messages. Every word I share is sent out in faith, trusting in the promise of Isaiah 55:11: "So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."Â I believe that God, through this platform, will guide His Word to the exact hearts it needs to touch. May His Word bless, encourage, and strengthen you today.
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