The words of A.W. Towzer, “let us practice the fine art of making every work a priestly ministration. Let us believe that God is in all our simple deeds and learn to find Him there.” As you consider pursuing an education in ministry, remember there is always space for ministry in every career calling. Whether big or small, obvious or covert, the work of the kingdom of God never ceases to exist.
With that said, it’s critical that ministry students feel equipped to carry the truth, healing, and hope of the gospel into any industry they enter. Every industry is affected by the work of Jesus, regardless of the label. There’s a need for christian thought-leaders in medicine, psychology, technology, education, parenthood, entertainment, etc. Through a christian worldview taught at ministry school, graduates can feel confident to go on preaching, teaching, and inspiring all of those they encounter.
For example, Krista Tippett, a Yale M.Div. student, went on to host the globally recognized radio program “On Being”, the winner of the National Humanities Medal. Barbara Brown Taylor, yet another Yale M.Div. student, went on to author Learning To Walk In The Dark, and was named one of TIME Magazine’s top 100 most influential people.
The christian landscape is bursting with fresh ideas, open-minded to the innovations of the next generation. The time is right for christian leaders to write, speak, and express in new ways. Recently, Craig Groeschel, pastor of Life Church, led the first virtual church experience in Facebook’s Metaverse. During the service, avatars we’re called to the altar, a few of which gave their lives to Jesus for the first time.
In a more traditional sense, there will always be a place for the historical ministry roles in society. As the world grieves, there will be more need for Christian chaplains. As the world searches, there will be more need for Christian educators. And as the world listens, there will be more need for Christian ministers. If these ministerial vocations better align with your calling, know that having biblical knowledge taught at ministry school is the best way to help you navigate the complexities of human relationships, church, and religion.
In numbers, there are over 31,000 practicing pastors, 1,400 military chaplains, 32,000 christian missionaries in the U.S. alone. These people will be looking to the next generation for the continuance of their work.
The options for you to pursue vocational ministry are endless. But don’t let the vastness of your future cloud your judgment. Ministry students around the world have assurance that not only has God called them to submit to a life of vocational service and ministry but that He also provides a plan for bringing that calling to life.
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” —Psalm 90:17