For a long time there has been some confusion around the word ministry. It is generally reserved to describe the job that pastors have. But I think it would be better to call the pastors’ job “representative ministry,” meaning that they exercise an authoritative teaching function on behalf of a group. Only a few function in that kind of ministry.

In Old Testament times, the word priest was reserved for the sons and grandsons of Moses’ brother, Aaron, who had a hereditary role as intercessors and offerers of sacrifices between God and his nation of Israel. They personally represented Jesus Christ, the Great High Priest. But in the New Testament era, God calls all believers his royal priests, and as such they too have a ministry as individuals. God gives people gifts for that service, as well as opportunities and his permission to get started. 

Many centuries before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, the great prophet Joel looked ahead to the way in which all of the believers would enthusiastically share the gospel message: “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions” (Joel 2:28).

Our confused and broken world has too many hurting people for just the clergy to tend to. They need you and the priestly message of salvation you can bring them.