Most people in Christian ministry would like to think they have a biblical ministry.  But what does that mean? 

Is it simply an evaluation of whether what they do is in the Bible?  Or maybe better, an assessment of whether their values and methodology reflect biblical qualities?  

This would be a good question to ponder prayerfully.

Let’s take a few minutes and consider what role the Bible plays in your ministry. 

I will start with some troubling ones I have observed. I have seen all of them over the years. Perhaps one or two have crept into my ministry at times. 

How about you?

1. Token requirement

This is where a Christian ministry uses the Bible here and there because it is expected or required. 

The driving energy for the ministry comes from the individual’s drive, the rhythm of habit and tradition, or the necessity of keeping their position. But the Bible seems inert, a lifeless requirement quoted here and there to endorse what is happening in the ministry.

2. Quotes and springboards

This is a slightly more specific version of number 1. This is where the Bible gets used to either endorse the message or to launch the message. 

Please understand me: the Bible is capable of both roles. However, in this case, it feels more used than living. 

The person makes their point, then adds a proof-text. Or the preacher reads a bit of the Bible, then launches away from it to preach what is essentially their own set of thoughts (often leaving the Bible far behind in the process).

3. Magic charm

This is where the Bible is used superstitiously to “guarantee” the effectiveness of the ministry. The people of Judah treated the temple as a guarantee in the days of Jeremiah, but they didn’t know what God was doing in their day. 

So, Christian ministries can hold up the Bible or quote a verse, thereby guaranteeing that their ministry should be successful.  Again, the Bible seems to be used rather than alive.

4. Blunt weapon

This is where the Bible gets used without precision. Instead of being the sharp scalpel wielded by a careful and kind surgeon, biblical words get plucked out of context and used for delivering blows to the poor recipients. 

Without God’s grace, character or plan, and tangible reliance on the Holy Spirit’s work in the heart, the Bible gets used to beat people into behavioural submission.

5. Self-support

Maybe you have come across this one too?  It is where the person doing the ministry uses the Bible to affirm their personal limitations and quirks. 

Instead of being humble, teachable, and open to help, the minister quotes the Bible to self-affirm, self-support, and defend from criticism or concern. 

Peter Mead is mentor at Cor Deo and author of several books. He blogs at Biblical Preaching.