In the context of the Presbyterian Church (USA), ordination refers to the formal recognition and setting apart of individuals as ministers or church leaders through a process that typically includes examination and approval by church authorities. It signifies their empowerment to lead worship, administer sacraments, and provide spiritual guidance within the church community.
Scripture
1 The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.
2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive,
5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?
6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.
8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain.
9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.
11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things.
12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well.
13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
PCUSA Bible Ordination Meaning
In the context of PCUSA (Presbyterian Church (USA)) ordination, the broader biblical meaning encompasses themes of call, leadership, and community accountability. The act of ordination is rooted in the biblical practice of setting apart individuals for specific roles in ministry, as seen in passages such as 1 Timothy 3:1-7, which outlines the qualifications for overseers, and Acts 6:6, where the apostles appoint seven men to serve the needs of the church. This biblically endorsed recognition of leadership not only emphasizes the importance of character and spiritual maturity but also reflects a communal affirmation of God’s calling upon an individual to serve His people.
Moreover, ordination carries implications of authority and responsibility, as seen in Ephesians 4:11-12, where Paul describes the purpose of church leaders being to equip the saints for ministry and to build up the body of Christ. This underscores the belief that ordained leaders are not just authorized to perform religious duties but are also tasked with nurturing the spiritual growth of the congregation. Thus, in the PCUSA context, ordination is understood as both a spiritual calling and a communal endorsement, reflecting the biblical commitment to fostering a diverse leadership called to serve in unity within the body of Christ, following the example set by Jesus in Mark 10:42-45, where leaders are called to serve rather than to be served.
In the framework of PCUSA ordination, the emphasis on community discernment plays a crucial role in understanding the biblical underpinning of this practice. The concept of community is echoed throughout scripture, as illustrated in passages that highlight the collective responsibility of believers to affirm and support their leaders. For instance, in the early church, believers would come together in prayer and fasting to seek God’s guidance in appointing leaders, demonstrating that ordination is not merely an individual affair, but a communal act of recognition and support for those called to guide.
Additionally, the symbolism of laying on of hands during the ordination process is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, representing the transmission of authority and blessing from one generation to the next. This act serves as a physical reminder of the Holy Spirit’s presence and empowerment in the life of the ordained individual. The significance of such rituals conveys the understanding that ordination is not solely about the elevation of a person but about their integration into a larger narrative of faith and service, as witnessed throughout scripture where leaders are consecrated for divine purposes. Thus, ordination within the PCUSA is a multifaceted event that intertwines individual calling, community validation, and divine commission—cultivating leaders dedicated to fostering a vibrant, spirit-filled church that reflects the image of Christ in the world.
The Call to Servant Leadership
In the context of PCUSA (Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)) ordination, the concept of servant leadership is paramount. The Bible emphasizes that those who are called to lead within the church are to do so with humility and a focus on serving others. This reflects the broader biblical principle that leadership is not about power or authority but about guiding and nurturing the community in faith. Ordination, therefore, signifies a commitment to embodying this servant leadership, where ordained individuals are seen as stewards of God’s grace, tasked with the responsibility of caring for the spiritual well-being of their congregations.
The Community of Believers
Another significant aspect of PCUSA ordination is the understanding of the church as a community of believers. The Bible presents the church as the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role and function. Ordination within this framework highlights the importance of communal discernment and accountability. It is not merely an individual calling but a recognition by the community that the ordained individual is equipped to fulfill specific roles that contribute to the overall mission of the church. This communal aspect underscores the belief that the church thrives when its members work together in unity, guided by those who are ordained to lead.
The Empowerment of the Holy Spirit
The role of the Holy Spirit is central to the understanding of ordination in the PCUSA context. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit empowers individuals for ministry, equipping them with the necessary gifts and abilities to serve effectively. Ordination is seen as a recognition of this divine empowerment, affirming that those who are ordained are not acting solely on their own strength but are guided and supported by the Spirit. This belief reinforces the idea that ministry is a collaborative effort between the ordained and the Holy Spirit, emphasizing reliance on divine guidance in fulfilling the church’s mission.
How to Strengthen Your Faith Through Church Leadership
Strengthening your faith through church leadership is a deeply enriching journey that invites you to engage with your community and grow spiritually. Start by actively participating in church activities, whether it’s attending services, joining a small group, or volunteering for outreach programs. These experiences not only deepen your understanding of scripture but also allow you to witness the passion and dedication of your church leaders, who often serve as powerful examples of faith in action. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your pastor or church leaders; their wisdom and insights can provide clarity and encouragement in your own spiritual walk. Additionally, consider taking on a leadership role yourself, as teaching or mentoring others can profoundly reinforce your beliefs and commitment to Christ. Remember, faith is not just a personal journey but a communal one, and by engaging with your church leadership, you’ll find a supportive network that nurtures your growth and helps you navigate the challenges of life with a Christ-centered perspective.
Bible References to PCUSA Ordination Meaning:
Titus 1:5-9: 5 This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—
6 if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination.
7 For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,
8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.
9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
Acts 6:1-7: 1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.
2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables.
3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.
4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch.
6 They set before the apostles, and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.
1 Peter 5:1-4: 5 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:
2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;
3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
Ephesians 4:11-13: 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,
12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
2 Timothy 2:1-2: 1 You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus,
2 and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
Numbers 27:18-23: 18 So the Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.
19 and set him before Eleazar the priest and before all the congregation, and you shall commission him in their sight.
20 You shall invest him with some of your authority, that all the congregation of the people of Israel may obey.
21 And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire for him by the judgment of the Urim before the Lord. At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he and all the people of Israel with him, the whole congregation.”
22 And Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and made him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation,
23 And he laid his hands on him and commissioned him as the Lord directed through Moses.
1 Samuel 16:1-13: 16 The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.”
2 And Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.” And the Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’
3 Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do. And you shall anoint for me him whom I declare to you.”
4 Samuel did what the Lord commanded and came to Bethlehem.
5 And he said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” And he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him.”
7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, “Neither has the Lord chosen this one.”
9 Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, “Neither has the Lord chosen this one.”
10 Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen these.”
11 Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.”
12 And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.”
13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah.
Exodus 28:1-3: 1 “Then bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the people of Israel, to serve me as priests—Aaron and Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar.”
2 And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.
3 You shall speak to all the skillful, whom I have filled with a spirit of skill, that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him for my priesthood.
Acts 13:1-3: Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
1 Corinthians 12:4-11: 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;
5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;
6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.
7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit,
9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit,
10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.
11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
2 Corinthians 3:4-6: 4 Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God.
5 Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God,
6 who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
Hebrews 5:1-4: 1 For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.
2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness.
3 Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people.
4 And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was.
Jeremiah 1:4-10: 4 Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying,
5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”
6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.”
7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.
8 Be not afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.
9 Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the Lord said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.
10 See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”
Matthew 28:18-20: 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.