Every Believer a Minister: Part 3 - A Church of Active Ministers
In the first two parts of this series, we discussed the biblical reality that all believers are called to ministry, and that church leaders are tasked with equipping the saints for that work. But what does it look like when the church begins to operate as a collective of active ministers? What happens when the priesthood of all believers is fully embraced and lived out?
In Romans 12:4-6 (CSB), Paul writes, "Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ and individually members of one another. According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts." Every believer has been given gifts to serve the body of Christ and to be a light in the world.
When the church embraces the priesthood of all believers, it radically transforms how ministry is understood and practiced. The church becomes a community where everyone is engaged in the work of ministry. No longer are pastors the sole ministers – every member is involved, each using their unique gifts to serve and build up the body.
This doesn’t mean that everyone needs to be involved in traditional church programs, but rather that everyone is a missionary in their daily lives. It means that parents disciple their children, business owners integrate their faith into their work, and neighbors reach out to neighbors with the love of Christ. The church’s mission extends beyond the walls of the building into every sphere of society.
Imagine a church where every believer sees themselves as a minister, whether they're serving at church, at work, or in their neighborhood. This is the kind of church that reflects the heart of God and makes an impact in the world around it. It’s not about pastors doing everything, but about everyone stepping into their unique calling and living out the gospel wherever they go. Let's lead our churches toward that kind of dynamic, where the body of Christ is moving, growing, and making a difference, together.