Defining Allen’s Argument
Having read Allen’s text, my understanding of his argument is that there is a
difference between being called to minister, called to ministry, and called to the
ministry. Allen suggests that being called to minister “is part and parcel of the
Christian life.”[1] Called to ministry means “that our vocation has a direct
ministerial component to it.”[2] Those called to the ministry “are called first to
teach or preach the Word, and should undertake their ministry accordingly.”[3]
Similarities in My Call to Ministry
My call to ministry has been similar to what Allen promotes in that as a Christian,
I recognize the call to minister as a default requirement of being a Christian. In
fact, I’ve felt the natural urge to minister to others become stronger since I gave
my life to Christ. I can honestly say I did not have this feeling before. I can also
see a similarity within myself as it relates to being called to the ministry. While I
do not have a desire to be a preacher, I have developed a strong desire to teach
God’s Word.
Differences in My Call to Ministry
Where my call is different is that my vocation does not have a direct mistrial
component to it. By trade, I have been in the Information Technology field for over
30 years. I’ve not held any positions directly related to ministry.
Objective and Subjective Elements
The objective elements of my call are the fact that I have grown into the
requirements as listed in 1Tim 3:1-7, and Titus 1:6-9. I say I’ve grown into them
because I did not always meet those criteria. In fact, it was only after I baptized
and underwent my transformation that the characteristics came naturally to me.
The subjective element of my call is my desire. As Paul writes “This is a faithful
saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work.” (1 Tim
3:1, NKJV). Though my desire is not linked to a specific position, I desire to teach
God’s Word nonetheless.
Questioning God’s Call
I think questioning God’s call on your life is a natural reaction. For me, the
question was more along the lines of whether I was hearing the call incorrectly,
not so much questioning God. I wanted to be sure I got it right, and I questioned
whether I was worthy.
[1] Jason K Allen (2019). (p. 19). Discerning Your Call to Ministry: How to Know
for Sure and What to Do about It. Retrieved from
https://app.wordsearchbible.lifeway.com
[2] Ibid.
[3] Ibid, 21.
