Well said, George. Moving into denominational work from pastoral ministry is not the same territory, only enlarged. It's a brand-new territory with different expectations, challenges, temptations, and opportunities. We could better prepare leaders for a role that is not the Church but serves the Church.
Fully agree. I have always said that the call to serve in a denominational role is a unique call in God's constellation of calls. As you said it is not the same territory just enlarged. It is different territory. (Especially for our spouses.)
George, I remember peers who were considering “calls” to churches describing them as great opportunities only to tell me after they’d been there awhile that the church lied! Of course! Committees put their best faces on, especially for new seminary grads! The Pastor Track at SBTS should’ve included a class on how to interview with pulpit committees!
Every great opportunity has its own set of challenges. Some people go to new places of service because they want to leave (or must leave) where they are. Others go to a new place of service because it is undeniable that God to calling them there. Knowing the difference is both a spiritual and human dilemma.
Good points, George. The Prayer of Jabez, on its own, isn’t an adequate foundation for ministry.
I have seen it abused too many times. Used to support human hubris!
Well said, George. Moving into denominational work from pastoral ministry is not the same territory, only enlarged. It's a brand-new territory with different expectations, challenges, temptations, and opportunities. We could better prepare leaders for a role that is not the Church but serves the Church.
Fully agree. I have always said that the call to serve in a denominational role is a unique call in God's constellation of calls. As you said it is not the same territory just enlarged. It is different territory. (Especially for our spouses.)
George, I remember peers who were considering “calls” to churches describing them as great opportunities only to tell me after they’d been there awhile that the church lied! Of course! Committees put their best faces on, especially for new seminary grads! The Pastor Track at SBTS should’ve included a class on how to interview with pulpit committees!
Every great opportunity has its own set of challenges. Some people go to new places of service because they want to leave (or must leave) where they are. Others go to a new place of service because it is undeniable that God to calling them there. Knowing the difference is both a spiritual and human dilemma.