Reception of Ministerial Leaders
Ministerial leaders participate in the spiritual oversight and nurture of fellow believers. When it is apparent that the Spirit has enabled an individual to share in ministry functions and that person has prepared himself for service to the church of God, we join together in acknowledging the Spirit’s gifting. Whether this represents responsibilities to a specific part of the body of Christ, or to lead in corporate worship, discipleship, or evangelism, we acknowledge God’s special endowment of grace and wisdom. Among the lay leaders of this church, we believe that God has given specific ministry enabling the one(s) standing before us.
In the words of Saint Paul we admonish you: “Take heed therefore unto your-selves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28).
Ministerial Leadership Covenant
Do you affirm your covenant of lay leadership that you have previously declared?
Answer: I do.
Having received specific direction and instruction for the ministry to which it is apparent that God has enabled you, will you give of your time and talents to the spiritual edification of those to whom you minister?
Answer: I will.
Paul admonished Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Tim. 4:16). Will you guard your heart, your influence, and the doctrines of the Scriptures?
Answer: I will.
Seeing your desire to become a ministerial leader of the church, do you cheerfully devote yourself to God and the everlasting covenant of His grace, consecrating all your powers and faculties to His service and glory? Do you promise that you will cleave to Him as your chief good; that you will give diligent attention to His Word and prayer; that you will seek the honor and advancement of His kingdom; and that denying all ungodliness and worldly lusts, you will live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world? Do you pledge that you will seek earnestly the peace, purity, and edification of the church, and walk with all its members in charity, faithfulness, and sobriety?
Answer: I do.