Calvin’s Vision for Church Leadership
John Calvin, the renowned Reformer, had a distinct understanding of church leadership. He believed that the New Testament provides clear guidelines for the offices of the church, rather than a precise liturgy or church order. In his studies, Calvin identified four offices: doctor, pastor-teacher, elder, and deacon. However, he emphasized the importance of the latter three.
The Role of Pastors
Pastors, according to Calvin, are trained, examined, and ordained to preach, teach, and administer the sacraments. They dedicate their full time to the ministry of the Word and prayer. In contrast to the Roman Catholic Church, Calvin argued that baptism, not ordination, makes a person a priest. Officers share with all believers “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” However, in their office, they are not mere facilitators or team leaders but Christ’s ambassadors, through whom He builds and extends His kingdom.
Ministerial Authority
Calvin reminded us that Christ told the apostles that ministers of the Gospel are like porters of the kingdom of heaven, carrying its keys. They are invested with the power of binding and loosing, which is ratified in heaven. Ministers exercise this authority through the doctrine of the gospel, preaching, absolution, and the sacraments. Calvin argued that no pastor should hold an office without actually executing that office in the church, contrary to the common practice of buying and selling church positions.
The Importance of Education and Examination
Calvin wondered how the Roman Catholic Church could boast of apostolic succession when they did not follow the explicit prescriptions for the offices and qualifications set forth in the New Testament. He emphasized the need for strict examination of both life and doctrine before admitting someone to the office of bishop or presbyter. Furthermore, the acclamation of the whole congregation was required for ordination.
The Pastor’s Role in the Church
Calvin’s vision for the pastor’s role in the church is one of humility and service. The pastor is not a lord, and the congregation is not his fiefdom. A good pastor attaches the sheep to the Great Shepherd, not to himself. Calvin declared, “Christ does not call his ministers to the teaching office that they may subdue the Church and dominate it, but that he may make use of their faithful labors to unite it to himself.”
Conclusion
Calvin’s understanding of church leadership emphasizes the importance of humility, education, and examination. Pastors are called to serve the church, not to dominate it. They are Christ’s ambassadors, exercising ministerial authority through the doctrine of the gospel. As we reflect on Calvin’s vision for church leadership, we are reminded of the importance of faithful labor and humble service in the church.
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