Recently, I’ve read articles that explain why many young ministers are leaving denominations for ministry in independent churches. Through the decades I have watched as many talented ministers have separated themselves from the Church of God for a variety of reasons. I would like to offer an explanation of why I have not jumped ship.
First, I don’t believe that the Church of God is without flaws. Our administrative bureaucracy at times has overburdened local churches and stifled missional creativity. Our church is often plagued with nepotism and extreme favoritism which sometimes places under-qualified persons in important leadership positions. Our polity, endorsed by the General Assembly, requires that we “lead in turn” by imposing term limitations which deprives the church of talented and anointed long term visionary leadership. I could go on, but you get the point (especially if you are a member of the family). The Church of God is far from perfect. But then, so am I.
Yes, I’ve had issues. I applied for Ordination in 1986. I answered all application questions faithfully. When asked if I could support the teachings of the church (practical commitments) I indicated which teachings I could not support. I had issues with several of the older “holiness” teachings and expressed my objections. A few weeks later I received a letter from our regional office asking me to come for an interview. The denominational official that conducted the interview was very honest and frank. He informed me that my application would most likely be rejected and that I might be more comfortable seeking ministry in another church. I responded that I would proceed with the application and if rejected, then I would consider other options. (That denominational official is a dear man and is today a respected friend.) O, by the way, the fact that I regularly wore a clergy shirt didn’t help matters. In spite of concerns, I was ordained in June 1986 and have served the Church of God since.
Early in ministry I had two opportunities for ministry outside the Church of God. The last opportunity was tempting. But in prayer I heard the voice of the Spirit speak to me: “I’ve called you to this church.” So, I stayed on board. The easy answer is that I believe God called me to minister under the auspices of the Church of God.
But my reason goes much deeper. It’s theological. The church catholic is the mystical body of Jesus Christ. That means “in Christ” I am “in churched.” In other words, even if I were to leave the Church of God, “in Christ” I would still be ontologically united with the Church of God. Today, my ordination to ministry is endorsed by the Church of God. Today, I am a member of the church catholic. Because I am “in Christ,” I am catholic, orthodox, protestant, pentecostal, baptist… you get the idea. I am an ecumenical soul. So, not only am I a member and minister of the Church of God; I am an ambassador of Jesus Christ and a minister within his universal church. God has called us to be interdependent, not independent. To leave the Church of God would be to divorce myself from a segment of the faith family which God loves and embraces. God hates divorce!
Instead, I choose radical grace. Just as Christ embraced me in brokenness; I embrace his church, warts and all. Even as I discern serious issues within the organization, I choose to be a minister of reformation and reconciliation. Therefore, in spite of our family issues I am grateful for my church home and the covering she provides.
To those who have left, you are my brothers and sisters. Let’s work to heal the family.
