Ep. 15: Called By God or Chasing the Stage?: A Look at Spiritual Calling Vs. Career Path in Ministry

04/08/2025 1h 19min

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Episode Synopsis

This week on Deformed Theology, Jonathan and David dig deep into the critical (and often misunderstood) question: What does it really mean to be called into full-time ministry?Is it enough to feel a personal desire or get a prophetic word at youth camp? Or does Scripture require more?Through a no-holds-barred discussion grounded in 1 Timothy 3, the guys tackle the distinction between divine calling and self-promotion, and explore why far too many people are stepping into church leadership without spiritual vetting, discipleship, or even a genuine call.You’ll hear:Why desire alone isn’t evidence of callingThe vital role of external confirmation from spiritual leadersHow narcissism is infiltrating both charismatic and reformed campsWhat the Bible says about qualifications for ministry (and why they matter)The real cost of faithful, vocational ministryWhy some people should not be in leadership—yet (or ever)The growing pressure to grow big churches vs. grow faithful disciplesThis episode also addresses common misconceptions around seminary education, church size, and the dangerous trap of treating ministry like a corporate career rather than a Divine calling to a life of servanthood.Plus, hear the guys respond to listener comments about charismatic camps, Bible translations, mega churches, Catholic relics (yes, really), and the difference between fruitfulness and platform.Whether you’re a pastor, aspiring minister, or just trying to discern your own calling—this conversation will challenge your assumptions, provoke conviction, and point you back to Scripture as the only reliable source of authority. Subscribe for weekly biblical conversations with a healthy dose of sarcasm, honesty, and deconstruction of spiritual fluff.

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