An issue I have with some churches is their emphasis on program-driven ministry. Sometimes the congregation is little more than a tool for realizing the pastorate's vision. Of course, it's a good thing when the laity serve in their church's ministries. In addition to ensuring their house of worship's fruitful existence, it gives them a chance to explore different ways to serve God. And if they find their niche, everyone benefits. But when a church member feels called to serve in (or start an) external ministry, leadership may feel threatened. A self-protective pastor might even take offense ("Is she really saying my church isn't good enough for her?"). So at best she may get a half-hearted send-off; at worst she's criticized for being divisive. It seems contradictory to church growth principles for pastors to encourage a layperson's external calling, kind of like a Macy's employee sending a paying customer to Gimbal's.
Certain churches have a body-count mindset, so they don't encourage members with an external ministry vision. As a result, folks ignore their personal callings and passions in favor of whatever church programs need a warm body. Some even think it's "spiritual" to fill an ill-fitting role. That kind of martyr complex may drive a curmudgeonly bachelor into the always-needy children's ministry, but eventually he will succumb to disillusionment and burnout. So how can a layperson find their passionate calling? That's the welcome theme of "When There's No Burning Bush (WTNBB)." The authors recognize that the laity have their own unique part to play in God's kingdom. To that end, their personal callings, passions, and giftings should be identified and nurtured toward fruition. As a result, everyone realizes their individual purpose within the Body of Christ, whether inside or outside a particular church.
To break down ministry barriers, the authors explore and debunk six ministry myths, such as "Most Real Ministry Happens at Church," "Ministry is for 'Ministers'," and "Good Christians Never Say 'No'." Encouraging stories of people taking ministry risks and finally experiencing fulfilling, passionate Christian service are told throughout "WTNBB." Many of them were confused, unhappy, and used up, despite being involved in otherwise successful ministries. But then they thought "outside the box," stepped out to embrace their true calling, and everything changed. I loved reading about the moment when their hoped-for ministry dreams became a joyous reality. I could almost see their burdens fall away and countenances lighten, especially when their pastors helped and encouraged them. Unfortunately, in some cases leadership was more hindrance than help. But the authors claim that more and more churches are working to empower the laity's external ministry aspirations, and hopefully that trend will continue.
I certainly don't intend to demonize pastors or minimize the need for laity to serve in their particular church. To be fair, pastors usually have good intentions, and are sincerely seeking to be Godly servant leaders. As for churches, they need a serving laity to survive and prosper. Indeed, many discover their specific calling within its walls. But a church's existence and growth shouldn't be at the expense of the layperson's true passion and calling. Too often, an individual member's fires are quenched in favor of the corporate church's flame. Sometimes needs must be met for a period, but being made to serve out of guilt or obligation is not the heart of God. I commend the authors for writing a book that will empower the layperson towards realizing his or her unique passion and calling for service, wherever that may lead. It would be great if "WTNBB" inspires their pastors to help them along the way. |
