Am I Called To Ministry?

I’ve been around the church and Christian education long enough to know that the question in this blog's title is something many young people wrestle with. In some form or another, I think most, if not all, young Christians feel God calling them to ministry. If that’s you, let me give you some encouragement. You are. 

All believers are called to ministry, but maybe not in the way you might think whenever you initially hear that statement. At first glance, that can sound like I just said all believers should be pastors, ministers, missionaries, church planters, etc. That’s not what I’m saying. I believe God has ordained certain individuals to be pastors, missionaries, and the like, and while we always need more of us, the reality is that all believers aren’t called to that office or in that capacity. 

I believe there is a subtle distinction between the terms “ministry” and “the ministry.” Ministry, or minister, basically just means someone who serves, and we are all called to do that. No Christian is exempt from the Great Commission. We are all mandated to do ministry because we should all go and make disciples. However, that doesn’t mean that all of us should be pastors or church planters. There is no disparity of importance in the distinction between these terms either, let me be clear on that. Being a Christian doing ministry doesn’t make you less important or less of a minister than a pastor leading a church or a missionary in the field. God has called us all to our own particular paths, and it is up to us to serve Him and bring Him glory wherever and however we serve!

Your call to ministry is ultimately up to you. It is something only you can feel God impressing upon your heart. And whether that is “ministry” or “the ministry” the reality is that it is important to God’s Kingdom and His plans for His people. Take it seriously, be thankful, and serve with passion and commitment. When you do that, know that you are being the good and faithful servant we should all strive to be.