Do you have values? Do you believe in doctrine? Do you think they are the same thing? You can think of your doctrine as elements of the faith, such as my identity and events in my life. Values are less specific. They would include a commitment to honesty and freedom of conscience, free speech and equal protection under the law for all, a respect for the life and human dignity of every person regardless of any circumstances of their condition or belief. So do you see the difference between these things?

In the Old Testament, the priesthood was a conferred office. This is still true in some denominations today, but not in others. Within those churches, those holding the office have recognized authority and responsibilities. Outside of those churches, the accepted position is that all believers hold the priesthood. What have I given you the authority to do in my name? Heal the sick? Declare the good news of the Kingdom to the poor and the lost and the blind? An easier question is what have I denied you the power to do in my name. Nothing. I have given you a durable power of attorney.

What do you look for in a pastor? Education is highly rated, and an important part of being a theologian. So seminaries select professors for high academic credentials and they create institutions and graduates according to the same value system. What is the core value of the Christian faith? Don’t believers claim that love is more important than anything else?  How would you describe me and rank the things that I considered important? Would education ever appear at the top of the list? How is love expressed in every aspect of your church life?

Do you draw a strong distinction between full time ministry workers and laymen? Do you see your own occupation as full time Christian work? Let me rephrase the question. Are you a full time Christian? Have I instructed you that you are to do whatever you do as unto me? The Bible recognizes church offices, but it makes a stronger case for inclusion and all belonging to one body than it does for multiple classes of believers. I want you to think of whatever you do as full time Christian work, whether you are a farmer, engineer, barber, or truck driver, among others.