To fully appreciate the importance of the office of the ministry, one must understand its rich history throughout the ages. The ministry is not a modern invention, but rather a divinely ordained role that has been essential to God's dealings with His people from the beginning.
In the pre-flood era, Noah was one of God’s preachers, warning the wicked of impending judgment (Genesis 8:20-22; 9:8-17; Hebrews 11:7; II Peter 2:5). After the flood, Abraham was another of God's ministers, receiving and communicating divine revelation (Genesis 20:7). Before God built the congregation of Israel, He chose Moses to be their leader and minister, through whom He would deliver His people and establish His covenant (Exodus 3:1-4:17).
In Israel, God established various offices to lead and serve His people. Judges, officers, or elders were chosen to govern and administer justice (Exodus 18:13-26; Numbers 11:16-17; Deuteronomy 16:18). The priests were set apart to minister in the direct worship of God, offering sacrifices and interceding on behalf of the people (Exodus 28:1; Numbers 18:7). They were also the stewards of God's word, responsible for teaching and interpreting the law (Deuteronomy 17:18; Nehemiah 8:7-8; Malachi 2:4-9).
In the New Testament era, before His crucifixion, Christ promised a transfer of authority to His servants, who would carry on His work after His departure (Mark 13:34). After His resurrection, Christ received and gave gifts to the church, establishing various offices for its edification and maturity (Ephesians 4:8-11; Psalm 68:18).
Apostles were given as the foundation of the church, receiving and imparting revelation from Christ and establishing the doctrine and government of the church (Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30; Ephesians 2:20). Prophets were also given as a foundational office, receiving and declaring revelation for the building up of the church (I Corinthians 13:8-10). Evangelists were given to spread the gospel and establish Christ among the people (Acts 8:5; Acts 21:8). Pastors (or bishops/elders) were given to rule and teach the churches, guiding and feeding Christ's sheep (I Timothy 3:3-4; 5:17; II Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17).
While Christ is now in heaven, His ministers are His ambassadors, representing Him and His kingdom on earth (II Corinthians 5:20). The apostles laid the foundation, and pastors continue to build on that foundation with Christ (Ephesians 2:20; I Corinthians 3:9). Even though all believers have a role to play in the church, pastors have a specific authority and responsibility to rule and oversee the flock (I Corinthians 6:1-5; 1 Peter 5:1-3).
Therefore, let us honor and respect the office of the ministry, recognizing its divine origin and essential role in the church throughout history. Let us pray for, support, and submit to our spiritual leaders, as they continue the work of Christ among us. For in honoring the ministry, we honor Christ Himself, who established it and works through it for the edification of His body.
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