The concept of divine calling extends far beyond traditional ministry roles. Many Christians have embraced the misconception that true devotion to Christ necessitates abandoning ordinary employment for full-time ministry or missions work. While the call to pastoral ministry and foreign missions represents a noble vocation with legitimate needs, Scripture presents a more nuanced understanding of divine calling that encompasses all legitimate work.

The Apostle Paul, despite his singleminded devotion to gospel ministry, explicitly affirmed the validity of ordinary vocations: “As God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk” (1 Corinthians 7:17).

Paul instructs believers to “abide with God” in whatever condition they were called (1 Corinthians 7:24) and to “heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23-24). These passages establish that ordinary work constitutes a genuine divine calling.

The Reformers challenged the prevalent medieval sacred/secular dichotomy by reclaiming the biblical teaching about vocation. As church historian Émile Doumergue noted, “Every vocation, liberal, as we call it, or manual, the humblest and the vilest in appearance as truly as the noblest and the most glorious, is of divine right.” This theological framework establishes that the physician is “God’s physician,” the merchant is “God’s merchant,” and the laborer is “God’s laborer.” Only laziness fails to receive divine sanction.

This understanding of vocation carries significant implications.

First, it dignifies all legitimate work as service to God.

Second, it cautions against elevating ministerial roles above other callings in ways that Scripture does not warrant. While all believers should seek theological growth and knowledge, this doesn’t necessitate formal seminary training or vocational ministry for everyone.

Third, it reminds us that neglecting familial responsibilities for supposedly “higher” callings contradicts biblical priorities, as evidenced by missionaries who placed ministry above parental duties with detrimental consequences.

In conclusion, Christians honor God by faithfully pursuing their distinct vocations, whether in ministerial or secular contexts. Each calling provides a unique opportunity to glorify God through diligent service and faithful witness. The doctrine of vocation liberates believers from false hierarchies of spiritual significance and invites them to embrace their God-given responsibilities with joy and excellence.

Source: https://www.feedingonchrist.com/blog/post/call

Disclaimer: Information in my “slip-box” doesn’t necessarily reflect my agreement with the source or all its content. Recording diverse perspectives helps strengthen one’s position beyond the echo chamber of like-minded thinkers. By documenting alternative viewpoints, we engage in the intellectual wrestling match that ultimately deepens our understanding.

I aspire to post one note from my “slip-box” every weekday. If you want to learn more about how to work with knowledge, click this link: What is knowledge management?