By Steve Childers

In this series we’re learning that the popular view of being called to the ministry is the opposite of the biblical view. The Apostle Paul writes,

“He (Christ) gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds (pastors) and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” (Eph. 4:11-12)

Most people think that clergy are the ones called to do the work of ministry and lay people are called to support them in that work. But the Biblical view is that lay people are the ones called to do the work of ministry and clergy are called to equip and support them in that work. Paul writes,

“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” (Col. 3:23-24).

In this lesson, you'll learn what the Bible teaches about how to fulfill God’s calling for your life in your normal work, job, or occupation–sometimes called your vocation.

Learning Goals

You’ll be equipped to:

• Define the biblical meaning of Secondary Calling and its relationship to Primary Calling

• Explain why a biblical view of being called to ministry is opposite from a popular view

• Illustrate what it means for pastors to “equip the saints for the work of ministry”

• Share why it’s important for all Christians to understand their Secondary Calling

• Explain how unbiblical views of the roles of clergy and laypeople can be harmful

• Teach and apply a biblical view of being called to the ministry using Ephesians 4

Choose Your Learning Pathway

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