In my “Christian Ministry” class we put together a “Call the the Ministry Checklist.” Basically we went through the Bible, and a number of pastoral theologies, pastoral biographies, and blog posts on the subject and noted the most common recurring marks that were given by various authors. In no particular order (apart from the first one):
- Salvation: You must be born again
- Christ-like character: Your life is clearly evidencing the fruits of the Spirit.
- Deep sense of unworthiness: “Unto me who am less than the least of all saints is this grace given that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.”
- Deep sense of insufficiency: You are asking, “Who is sufficient for these things?”
- Holy desire: You passionately want to be a pastor with holy motives firing the passion.
- Overwhelming constraint: It’s not an option but a compulsion: “Necessity is laid upon me. Woe is me if I preach not the Gospel.”
- Unofficial affirmation: Supportive and confirming feedback from those who know you best.
- Official confirmation: Your congregational leadership supports and affirms your call.
- A burden for souls: You love the souls of sinners and long to do them good.
- Energy: You have an enthusiasim for the task. If you lack this, get out of the way and let someone else take your place.
- Spiritual maturity: “Not a novice.” You have a proven track record of Christian service.
- Gifts: Ability to study, communicate, listen, organize.
- Friendliness: You like people and can initiate and sustain conversations.
- Providence: God is opening doors of service.
- Patient: Willingness to wait for the doors to open.
- Sacrifice: Willingness to suffer loss in pursuit of the call.
- Training: A desire and willingness to receive training for the ministry.
- Assurance: A sufficient degree of certainty about personal salvation and personal call.
What others would you add?
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