Discussing the Preacher Shortage in churches of Christ (03.02.23)

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify | RSS

Plain Bible Teaching Podcast

This week I’m joined by Kristofer Gardana, and we’re talking about a recent editorial in The Christian Chronicle about a “preacher shortage” in churches of Christ. Whether this is something we have seen personally or not, it does cause us to consider the role of a preacher and how brethren can encourage those who are involved in this work. So we’re going to discuss this in our episode today.

STORY – Who’s to Blame for the Preacher Shortage in Churches of Christ? We Are

“Churches of Christ don’t have enough preachers to fill all the open pulpits in our fellowship.

“That’s no secret, as news stories in The Christian Chronicle note.

“The big question: Why don’t more young Christians aspire to become ministers?

“Just a few of the reasons:

• Lack of money: Many small congregations — the majority of Churches of Christ — can’t (or won’t) support a full-time minister. Who wants to choose a vocation, even a sacred calling, where you can’t afford to buy groceries?

• Lack of faith: Many adult Christians have lost their heart for the Lord’s work, and their children can see it. Why would anyone expect those kids to view ministry as a valuable pursuit?

• Lack of unity: Doctrinal differences — large and small — characterize the nation’s 12,000 autonomous Churches of Christ. Who can pass the litmus tests imposed by many congregations? (And who wants to try?)

“But perhaps the biggest factor — and the saddest — relates to the lack of respect afforded preachers in our fellowship. We don’t honor them or hold them in high regard.

“Way too often, we treat ministers in harsh ways that must make our children and even strangers in our communities shudder.”

[…]

“One minister…told us: “Churches of Christ, by and large, acted like they could mistreat preachers in every way possible and still hire one who would be new and shiny anytime they wanted. The bill for bad behavior is now coming due for our fellowship.” (The Christian Chronicle)