Pastor to Pastor:
Preparing Full-Time Christian Workers
By Rev. Wally Stephenson
 Acts 13:1-3 narrates how the early church sent out their first
missionaries. As they worshipped and prayed, the Holy Spirit said,
"Separate unto me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have
called them." God spoke to the church, and the members obeyed.
In one of my pastorates, church members often remarked, "Keep an
eye on Tom. God is going to use him." People noticed his gifts and
capabilities even when he was a young boy. The church and I observed
as he took the lead in youth group. We encouraged him and offered
opportunities for Christian service. Gladly we saw him leave for
Bible college and have followed his progress as a pastor. What a
joy for the church to recognize and be part of the call of God on
Tom's life!
In another church, I remember when Drew returned from Bible college
and announced that he felt called to missions and had already applied
to a mission agency. We were not opposed to his decision, and Drew
has served well as a missionary. But the church and I felt like
spectators. We were expected to support him with prayer and finances,
but we had no input in the process.
I believe the church should take an active part in selecting and
equipping men and women for Christian service. Here are a few practical
tips:
- Begin early to involve children and youth in every aspect of
ministry, from nursery to visitation to speaking and teaching.
Observe those who have special potential and assign mentors to
help them grow spiritually.
- In the missions budget, set aside money to provide scholarships
to those the church has identified as potential full-time Christian
workers.
- Before a candidate is interviewed by a mission board or a pastoral
candidate is questioned by an ordination council, conduct a "dress
rehearsal." The candidate gives his/her doctrinal statement, and
the church members cross-examine him.
Ultimately, God sets apart people for His service, but the local
church has its part in identifying, developing, and endorsing its
members for the work to which God has called them.
Read Missions in the Local Church for additional information
on the selection and training of full-time Christian workers.
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