Raising Laborers for the Lord
Our commission as followers of Christ is to make disciples. That call does not end at the baptistry or even with maturity in the pew; it extends to raising faithful men who will also teach others (2 Tim. 2:2). The church bears the responsibility to recognize and nurture those whom the Lord may be setting apart for gospel ministry.
Recently, at Denver Street Baptist Church, we shared in the joy of licensing a brother who has sensed the Lord’s call and is beginning the process of testing his spiritual gifting. More than a year ago, I asked our prayer team to pray intentionally for laborers. We did not know how or when God would answer, but we trusted Him to give good gifts to His body (Eph. 4:11). Now we bear witness to His faithfulness in raising up men who aspire to the noble task of shepherding (1 Tim. 3:1).
Licensing is the congregation affirming that they see evidence of grace, support the need to test a calling, and accept responsibility to provide accountability. These commitments matter. Christ has entrusted authority to the local church, not to individuals. The same congregation that guards the ordinances must also examine, encourage, and set apart men for ministry.
Three truths stand out as essential for every man sensing the weight of ministry:
• Trust the Lord’s leading. Scripture repeatedly shows that God forms His servants in hidden places before He places them in visible ones. David learned faithfulness among the sheep before leading Israel. Paul spent years in relative obscurity after his conversion before his wider ministry unfolded. Even Timothy was urged, “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands…” (1 Tim. 5:22 ESV).
Spiritual maturity cannot be rushed. Seasons that feel slow can be blessings that strengthen you if you do not despise them. Obscurity can be a gift, not a punishment. Trusting the Lord means embracing preparation rather than racing past it. His timing is perfect.
• Develop daily disciplines. Paul instructed Timothy to “keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching” (1 Tim. 4:16). Before a man can guard doctrine publicly, he must guard his own soul privately.
No amount of reading, feedback, or education can replace daily habits. A man with a noble calling without discipline is a danger to the church. Guard your private prayer life, study habits, and personal holiness carefully. Protect your mind from unhealthy thoughts. Invest in your marriage and nurture your friendships.
While preaching happens in public, it will never exceed the character formed in private.
• Maintain holy zeal. The man of God has a unique calling. His heart aspires to the work of the Lord, and this gift can either bless him or become a snare. Proverbs 4:23warns, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Zeal must be joined with humility. Conviction must be tempered by patience. A shepherd-in-training must resist measuring others by the burdens God has placed on him. Protect yourself from bitterness, frustration, and complacency. Above all, love people faithfully. Remember the Chief Shepherd who leads with steadfast love, not irritation.
The Role of an Association in Raising Laborers
While licensing flows from the authority of a local church, an association of churches plays a vital supportive role in raising laborers for the gospel. Ministers need to be tested beyond the familiarity of their home church and to receive mentorship, accountability, and encouragement from other pastors.
Associations provide opportunities to preach in different settings, share wisdom, and experience being part of a larger body of Christ. Churches can encourage this by inviting licensed ministers to preach, not just when filling a pulpit, but as a regular practice to foster growth and mentorship.
Celebrating Licensing
Licensing is both a celebration of God’s faithfulness and a commitment to walk alongside a brother as he is examined, encouraged, and formed. The Lord is faithful to raise leaders in His time. May our churches continue to shape hearts, equip hands, and trust that His Spirit will accomplish His work in each life and throughout the wider harvest field.