The Covenant and Code of Ethics for Ministerial Leaders of American Baptist Churches

Section 2 

I will respect and recognize the variety of calls to ministry among my American Baptist colleagues and other Christians.

 

The Apostle Peter was sent by God to Cornelius the Roman centurion and there received a life-changing revelation. He had believed that the Good News was intended only for the Jews.  In Acts 10:34-35 Peter proclaims his new revelation: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, but accepts people from every nation who fear God and do what is right.” (See 2 Corinthians 5:16-18).

The Apostle Paul in Galatians 3 speaks clearly of the promises of God, being given to those who have faith in Jesus Christ. He says, “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.”  (See John 17:20-23; Luke 9:49-50).

In Ephesians 4:11 Paul recognizes the variety of calls to ministry that are found among us. He writes, “The gifts Christ gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of the ministry.” (See 1 Corinthians 12).

  

Questions for Consideration:

1. How do I show respect for those colleagues who do not share my particular calling?
2. How do I feel about women in ministry?   Have I prayerfully studied the question?  Do I understand the reasoning of colleagues who feel differently?
3. How do I show respect for clergy of other denominations?
4. How do I show respect for colleagues who are of different ethnic and/or cultural backgrounds than my own?
5. What do I do to promote respect and unity among colleagues?  
6. Am I familiar with my region’s ordination standards and procedures? Do I watch for and encourage individuals who might be called to the ministry? 
7. If an individual sought my help in entering the ministry, what would I advise?

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