Training for the public ministry?

I am a high school student from one of the WELS high schools. I never had any intention of becoming a called worker, however, I took a trip to Martin Luther College and for the past half year I have had this constant calling in my heart to become a pastor. Having not explored many other career options, I do not want to be a pastor out of lack of trying anything else. How does one decide if their gifts can best be used to serve God through public ministry vs. in any other field? Has God destined some people for ministry? If so, how does that fit in with the fact that he gives us free will?

I am happy to hear of your interest in training for service in the public ministry. Such service is definitely an undeserved privilege.

I presented your questions, while preserving anonymity, to one of the classes I teach here at Martin Luther College (MLC). The students in this particular class are primarily sophomores in the pre-seminary program, so they could certainly identify with your situation.

Here are some of their responses to your questions:

– “Go ahead and consider other options. See what gifts has given you and how those gifts might match up to your passion for serving God in a particular way.”

– “Recognize that people can serve God in so many different vocations in life.”

– “It’s never too late. You could try other vocations and then consider training for the public ministry at another point in life.”

– “Talk to men who serve as pastors in the public ministry. See what they like about their calling. Compare their thoughts with your ideas about service in the public ministry.”

– “Don’t go looking for signs from God on what to do. He will bless whatever decision you make.”

– “See if you might be able to do some things in high school—like giving a devotion—that can help you picture yourself serving in the public ministry.”

– “Finally, if you’re not sure, come to MLC. You will be in an environment where you are surrounded by God’s word and Christian people. It’s a place where you can grow in your faith while you try to sort out the future.”

I thought the responses the students came up with were very good. I would especially underscore the one about “not looking for signs from God.” When it comes to serving God with your life, you have many good options from which to choose. Through prayer, discussion with others, and reflection on the gifts God has given you, you can determine how to live your life as a way of thanking God for his love for you (Romans 12:1).

If you would like more information on the pre-seminary program at Martin Luther College, please contact the Admissions Office at [email protected]

Finally, if you do enroll at MLC and wind up in one of my classes, please remind me of this question and answer! God bless you.