The Sanctity of Ordination

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Scripture

1 Timothy 5:22 Do not ordain anyone hastily, and do not participate in the sins of others; keep yourself pure.

Observation

It could be that Timothy had a rather generous spirit, and was not as discerning as he ought to have been regarding ordination of those to the ministry, or restoration of those who had fallen. The warning here is to slow down and monitor the process so that you do not end up participating in the sins of others. Ordination is not to be taken lightly, but is sacred within the life of those who are called.

Application

You can purchase your ordination on the internet these days for just a few dollars. We watch mass marital ceremonies on television done by celebrities who have been “ordained” just for this purpose. The entire process has become one which society views very lightly. But the church should not. The church should heed these words and not ordain hastily.

Ordination to the ministry is for those who have been called by God and have been affirmed by the community of faith. These are individuals who have studied and know the word and have shown in their personal lives that they are faithful followers of Christ. This is not just for anyone!

The Church has a responsibility to maintain the sanctity of ordination. May we heed the words given here to Timothy!

Prayer

Lord, please continue to call people into your ministry. Amen.

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