12 Bible Verses About Being Ordained: Understanding God’s Calling
In the Bible, the concept of being ordained carries a profound significance, often associated with God's call to serve in specific roles, particularly in ministry. Being ordained signifies a setting apart for a special purpose, whether in leadership, teaching, or other forms of service. Here are 12 Bible verses that highlight the importance of ordination and God’s calling in our lives.
1. 1 Timothy 1:12
“I thank Him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because He judged me faithful, appointing me to his service.”
- This verse emphasizes the truth that being ordained is a recognition of God’s faithfulness and the strength He provides for service.
2. Jeremiah 1:5
“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.”
- God’s calling on Jeremiah illustrates that ordination begins before birth, highlighting His divine purpose for each individual.
3. Acts 13:2-3
“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.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”
- This passage shows the process of ordination within the early church, where leaders were set apart for specific work through prayer and fasting.
4. 2 Timothy 1:6
“For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”
- Paul encourages Timothy to recognize and cultivate the gifts God has given him, which were acknowledged through the act of ordination.
5. Exodus 28:41
“And you shall put them on Aaron your brother, and on his sons with him, and shall anoint them and ordain them and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.”
- This verse outlines the ordination of Aaron and his sons, establishing the importance of consecration for those called to lead in God’s service.
6. 1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
- This verse emphasizes that all believers are ordained as part of the royal priesthood, called to declare God’s glory.
7. Ephesians 4:11-12
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds, and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”
- These roles represent various forms of ordination within the church, highlighting the essential functions for the edification of believers.
8. Romans 10:15
“And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’”
- This verse reinforces the idea that being ordained or sent is essential for spreading the Gospel, calling attention to the feet that bring good news.
9. Titus 1:5
“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.”
- Paul instructs Titus on the importance of ordaining leaders in the church, indicating the necessity of structured leadership.
10. Hebrews 5:4
“And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was.”
- This verse underscores that ordination must come through a divine calling, emphasizing the sacred nature of the role.
11. Psalm 78:72
“With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.”
- A reminder that those ordained to lead must do so with integrity and skill, caring for those they lead.
12. Matthew 28:19-20
“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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
- The Great Commission serves as a foundational call for all believers, encouraging them to embrace their role in spreading the Gospel.
These verses illustrate the significance of being ordained and set apart for God's purpose. Whether in formal leadership roles or through the call to disciple and serve, ordination reflects a commitment to fulfill God’s mission. As you contemplate these Scriptures, consider how you may be called to serve in your own capacity, recognizing the sacred trust given to those who are ordained for His work.