Hard Christian Truths

You are NOT Called to the Ministry

Is vocational ministry a biblical calling?

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels

My understanding of “calling” has evolved over the years. Early on, a narrow institutional perspective defined my view of being called. It was the only framework I understood at the time, but now my view of calling is profoundly relational. My perspective underwent a necessary shift that led me to a more Biblical understanding of calling.

I grew up in a typical Baptist church in North Texas. It was not perfect, but the people were good. They discipled me and taught me the Scriptures. They loved me through my rough years. When I began to hear the Lord speaking to me about my future, I processed it through that institutional church lens. In my view, I had only a handful of options. It was like a Holy Multiple Choice Quiz.

• Option A — Pastor: Yeah, that wasn’t me. Though I love God’s word and proclaiming Truth, I didn’t feel I fit into that role.
• Option B — Music Minister: Nope, I love listening to music, but leading people into His presence through a worship experience was not in my gifting.
• Option C — Youth/Student Minister: Ministering to youth was great in my college years, but it was clear I couldn’t keep up the silliness required for the long haul.