Get Acquainted

THE CALL OF GOD, MINISTERIAL CREDENTIALS, & PREPARATION

1. How Does God Call People?

There are at least two types of calling that come from God: The first type of call extends and applies to all Christians. Jesus said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24, NLT). This is a general call to all believers to follow Jesus, giving Him first priority in our lives.

The second type of call is to vocational ministry, when following Jesus involves a more specific, leadership-oriented direction for life, like serving as a pastor or missionary. Some of Jesus’ followers had been fishermen. They had already accepted a general call to follow Him, but Jesus added a more specific call to become His disciples, followers then known as apostles, as their primary focus in life: “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!” (Luke 5:10, NLT). This was their response to the call, “And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus” (Luke 5:11, NLT). A call from God is more than a career; it is a life direction from Him to fully serve Him.

2. How Can I Know I am Called to Vocational Ministry?

God speaks in a variety of ways, often revealing His call through more than one method as a confirmation. Some confirmations are inward while others are outward. Because He is God, He is not limited! However, here are some of the frequent ways, useful like gauges, through which the Lord speaks about His call:

3. How to Get Started

Let’s get acquainted! Start by submitting the easy-to-complete “Getting Acquainted” form on this page.