Discerning Your Ministry Calling
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.
