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Over the years I have written several "book" or "booklets" and many, many, many newsletter and bulletin articles. Because the book market seeks writings to meet specific needs at specific times, my material has never been accepted. I have a tendency to write what is on my mind and so I am left with self publishing. So, with the encouragement from my wife and others, I am beginning this blog in order to put my "ramblings" "out there"! I hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer

Please note that while my intentions are to use good grammar, because of the way in which some of the material presented here is presented (orally) the grammar and syntax might not always be the best English. Also note that good theology is not always presented in the best English so there may be times when the proper grammar rules are purposely broken.

Monday, April 16, 2018

Lutheran Vocational Evangelism

(The Office of Holy Ministry)

Keep in mind the fact that we are most sure of what we are doing when God is the one who is doing the doing.

When it comes to being called into service to the Lord in the Office of Holy Ministry, we believe, teach and confess that a man does not call himself into the Office of Holy Ministry. And we might also add, God does not call all men into the Office of Holy Ministry. God calls some men into the Office of Holy Ministry.

God’s usual way of coming to us, of giving to us, of working with us is through means. The same is true for His calling into the Office of Holy Ministry. God does not simply call a man into the Office of Holy Ministry, and especially not simply through one’s “feeling” a calling from God. God calls through means, and He validates His call through His Church. In other words, God’s call is through His Church so that as a local congregation meets, prays and issues a call, then the one who is called has the call from God into the Office of Holy Ministry validated, and they are certain that their calling is from God.

And God’s call into the Office of Holy Ministry is a calling of service. God’s call is not a calling to be a coach or mentor. His call is not a calling to be a chief executive officer (CEO). Pastors are not trained to be CEOs. God’s calling is not for the pastor to send his members out to be ministers. His members are not trained to be ministers. This type of activity is a reversal of what God has given. God has called the laity to run the congregation and the pastor to serve the Lord by being His servant in that place. Thus, the Pastor is called to preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and forgive and retain sins.

As Christians, we believe, teach and confess that God has called some men into the Office of Holy Ministry, that He has validated that call through the calling congregation, and that He has given pastors to preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and forgive and retain sins.
12 of 52    © Rev. Dr. Ronald A. Bogs (2018)
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