Where does it say that one’s spiritual gift is to become one’s job? And why particularly pastors, missionaries, etc? And where does it say the pastor is responsible for all the goings on in the congregation? And why should the role of pastor involve opportunity for power and control? I agree with much that Glenn says. Stop making pastors CEOs. Let the congregation truly run the church. Let pastors be teachers and guides, not rulers. It’s not just pastors who need change. Congregations need to get off complacent butts and help shoulder the responsibilities. And “ministry” is not just one of the churches smorgasbord options for your spare time. It’s your workplace, where you daily meet Christ and manifest him.
Sorry for the rant. Pushed one of my buttons. Don’t worry — I won’t show up in your congregation.
"On the other hand, if the membership should try to do any ministry, they are reminded there are people – the ministers – who are professionally trained to handle such needs."
I agree with your whole piece. And as my own church struggles to encourage people to enter into the fulness of whatever ministry they are called to, I am keenly aware both that most churches tromp down people who attempt to step into something that is traditionally "the pastor's job" and also that seminary does NOT manage to professionally train us pastors to fill all of the needs of even a small church.
Thank you Mike
Where does it say that one’s spiritual gift is to become one’s job? And why particularly pastors, missionaries, etc? And where does it say the pastor is responsible for all the goings on in the congregation? And why should the role of pastor involve opportunity for power and control? I agree with much that Glenn says. Stop making pastors CEOs. Let the congregation truly run the church. Let pastors be teachers and guides, not rulers. It’s not just pastors who need change. Congregations need to get off complacent butts and help shoulder the responsibilities. And “ministry” is not just one of the churches smorgasbord options for your spare time. It’s your workplace, where you daily meet Christ and manifest him.
Sorry for the rant. Pushed one of my buttons. Don’t worry — I won’t show up in your congregation.
"On the other hand, if the membership should try to do any ministry, they are reminded there are people – the ministers – who are professionally trained to handle such needs."
I agree with your whole piece. And as my own church struggles to encourage people to enter into the fulness of whatever ministry they are called to, I am keenly aware both that most churches tromp down people who attempt to step into something that is traditionally "the pastor's job" and also that seminary does NOT manage to professionally train us pastors to fill all of the needs of even a small church.