Deep Dive into Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon - The Call to the Ministry

Charles Spurgeon asserts that while all Christians share a general duty to disseminate the gospel, the specific office of the pastorate—entailing teaching, oversight, and full-time dedication—requires a distinct, divine commission. This calling is not a self-chosen career but a spiritual appointment analogous to the commissions of Old Testament prophets and New Testament ambassadors. To enter this sacred office without being sent by God is a fearful calamity for both the individual and the church.

Spurgeon outlines four primary evidences to discern a genuine call. First, there must be an intense, all-absorbing desire for the work, described as a "fire in the bones." This craving must be thoughtful, enduring, and thoroughly disinterested, motivated solely by the glory of God rather than ambition, financial gain, or a desire for status. Second, the aspirant must possess an aptness to teach and essential pastoral qualities, including sound judgment, solid experience, and leadership skills. These gifts must be practically tested and affirmed by judicious believers rather than relying on self-assessment.

Third, a true calling is sealed by spiritual fruitfulness; a minister must eventually see souls won to Christ through his instrumentality, for a continuously barren ministry indicates a lack of divine sending. Finally, the will of the Lord is confirmed through the prayerful judgment of the church and providential openings. The preaching must be acceptable to God's people, for the sheep know the voice of a God-sent shepherd. Spurgeon sternly warns against those entering the ministry due to pride, "zeal without brains," an inability to succeed in secular trades, or significant physical impediments to speech. Ultimately, the ministry demands the very best of men who are prepared to endure hardship, slander, and poverty for the sake of the gospel.

Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian

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