Ed Stetzer: “Laypeople” and Ministry

Is the mission of God merely for pastors? What about ministry? When it comes to God’s Mission and the church, Is there a distinction, should there be a distinction between “lay people” and pastors? We have, I fear, adopted the view that ministers and pastors are set apart to do ministry, and that if you are not called to ministry as a full time vocation, then you are somehow excused from the work of the church.

Laypeople often think that this means their job is to pay, pray, get out of the way. To make sure we are not communicating a low, irresponsible view of laypeople one thing is critical. We must create an atmosphere of expectation and responsibility.

In this post, I am going to draw your attention to a series of posts I wrote two years ago, on Laypeople and the Mission of God. We will look at killing the laity/minister caste system; reclaiming the priesthood of all believers; developing an ownership mentality; creating a culture of expectation and finally we will look at essentials to changing the culture in your church.

I'm always fasctinated that some people read my thoughts to say that pastors don't matter. They often have an agenda to read into what I write-- as if I don't believe in the office of pastor. I do, but I don't believe in the exclusivity of pastors in the ministry. That's the point-- and it is a real problem that we all can agree needs addressing. Read more

The laity/minister caste system is a leading characteristic of the Anglican Church in North America. It is clearly reflected in the photo. Note the bishops on the platform in their distinctive garb and the other clergy in a section of their own also in distinctive garb and separated from the laity.