Full-time Ministry or Vocational Ministry?

Grace recognizes that one does not need to be called into full-time ministry to serve God. 

The word ministry means “service.” In a Christian context, ministry involves serving God and others the way Jesus did, as He is our example (see Matthew 20:28 and John 13:13–15). While pastors make their living doing “ministry,” God calls us all to minister in some capacity. Colossians 3:23–24 instructs, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Whether it’s a vocation or an occupation, we can work at it with an attitude of serving God.

However, God calls some to serve him through various ministry opportunities. The goal is to give information and direction for those considering full-time ministry.

Church Ministry

Camp Ministry

Overseas Missions

Other Opportunities

Church Ministry

Above Reproach (Titus 1:6, 7; 1 Tim 3:2)
This is the overarching, summarizing characteristic. You will find similar (but not identical) lists in First Timothy and Titus. Living a life above reproach is the first requirement in both lists and Titus repeats it. The other items on the list explain what “above reproach” means. If we peruse the two lists, as well as First Peter, we find 17 qualifications of one who is above reproach.

1. One must be devoted to his wife; one-woman man (Titus 1:6; 1 Tim 3:2). 
2. One's children must be in submission, though not perfect (Titus 1:6; 1 Tim 3:4-5).
3. One must be a faithful steward (Titus 1:7). 
4. One must be humble — not arrogant (Titus 1:7). 
5. One must be gentle — not quick-tempered (Titus 1:7; 1 Tim 3:3). 
6. One must be sober — not a drunkard (Titus 1:7; 1 Tim 3:3). 
7. One must be peaceful — not violent (Titus 1:7; 1 Tim 3:3). 
8. One must have financial integrity — not greedy for gain (Titus 1:7; 1 Tim 3:3; 1 Peter 5:3).
9. One must be hospitable (Titus 1:8; 1 Tim 3:2). 
10. One must be a lover of good (Titus 1:8). 
11. One must be self-controlled (Titus 1:8; 1 Tim 3:2).
12. One must be upright (Titus 1:8). 
13. One must be holy (Titus 1:8). 
14. One must be spiritually mature (1 Tim 3:6). 
15. One must be respectable (1 Tim 3:7). 
16. One must be an example to the flock (1 Peter 5:3). 
17. A pastor must be able to teach (Titus 1:9; 1 Tim 3:2). 

Curated by Acts 29

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Camp Ministry

​There’s nothing quite like working at a Christian camp or conference center--it’s a job with purpose. Whether you’re looking for a full-time position or a summer job, if you want to serve at a Christian camp or conference center, this is the first place to look.

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Global Missions

“The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.”
​~Hudson Taylor~

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