In this episode I speak with Scott Pace and Shane Pruitt to discuss their book Calling Out the Called. We explore the current landscape of ministry, the lack of young leaders, and the importance of inviting the next generation to consider a calling to ministry. The conversation delves into the process of discerning a call, the role of mentorship, and the necessity of creating opportunities for young people to serve in the church.
Along the way we emphasize that ministry should be fulfilling and that leaders must be mindful of how they discuss the challenges of ministry to encourage rather than deter potential leaders. We also discuss the challenges and joys of ministry, emphasizing the importance of recognizing a calling, the value of bi-vocational opportunities, and the significance of connecting with the next generation.
If you are considering a call to ministry or just desire to be part of a church that equips others to serve in vocational ministry, this podcast is a great resource.
Takeaways
- Calling Out the Called addresses the need for young leaders in ministry.
- There are more ministry leaders over 65 than under 40.
- God is still calling people to ministry leadership today.
- The process of calling involves personal, private, and public affirmation.
- Serving in ministry can help reveal one’s specific calling.
- Churches need to create on-ramps for aspiring leaders.
- Every believer has a universal calling to serve.
- Ministry should be challenging but not miserable.
- The Holy Spirit works in advance of a calling moment.
- Leaders must be careful about how they discuss ministry challenges. Difficult situations in ministry are part of the journey.
- Fulfillment in ministry comes from serving and loving people.
- Recognizing a call to ministry can happen at any stage of life.
- Bivocational opportunities are valuable for churches and individuals.
- Every member of the church has a role in ministry.
- NextGen ministry focuses on youth and young adults.
- Building relationships with youth can affirm their calling.
- Sharing personal stories of calling can inspire others.
- Mistakes are part of the learning process in ministry.
- Creating opportunities for aspiring leaders is essential for church growth.
Sound Bites
- “There’s a gap in young leaders under 40.”
- “Every believer has a universal calling to ministry.”
- “The call to ministry is a process, not a moment.”
- “We need to create on-ramps for aspiring leaders.”
- “Serving reveals your calling in ministry.”
- “Ministry should not be miserable.”
- “I get paid to study. I get paid to read God’s word.”
- “Every member, a minister.”
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Ministry and Calling
02:48The Birth of ‘Calling Out the Called’
06:04Understanding the Gap in Young Leaders
08:58The Process of Calling to Ministry
12:09The Role of Mentorship in Ministry Calling
14:47Creating On-Ramps for Aspiring Leaders
18:00The Importance of Serving in Ministry
21:03Perceptions of Ministry and Its Challenges
23:45Navigating Difficult Situations in Ministry
24:31The Joy of Ministry and Fulfillment
25:00Recognizing a Call to Ministry
26:11Bivocational Opportunities in Ministry
27:04Every Member a Minister
29:09Understanding NextGen Ministry
30:25Connecting with the Next Generation
32:22Sharing Our Stories of Calling
34:06The Journey to Ministry Leadership
37:35Creating Opportunities for Aspiring Leaders
39:29Resources for Discipling Future Leaders
