The Modern Hireling and Effects of Professionalism

In this episode, we will discuss the workings and expectations of local church work and the adverse effects of professionalism in the institutional system. One of the major effects of the system is the belief that we may hire a preacher to do the work in a way that limits anyone else's participation and thus growth. The individual's work is believed to be accomplished by proxy, i.e., through the hired preacher who represents the local church. This, also, robs individuals of their use of knowledge and wisdom because all cannot meet the format of teaching in a local church. Consequently, there are players and fans. The panorama view of activity is focused on a stage, a performer, and a listening audience whose attention is centered around the performer. He is often rated each week with some favorable and some not as favorable.

This hireling performer is involved in preparation for sermons and classes through the week. The highlight is the Sunday morning performance. There is very little sharing in this body as only a select few designated to serve can participate in a "worship service." The more specialized the task, the less participation is expected. It's all about the performers, who, when doing a good job, receive the accolades of men and a pat on the back.

In this system, there are often power struggles, concerns about job security, rules of political correctness, and unfair standards attached to the preacher and his family. The success and happiness of church members largely depend upon his work among them. If for any reason he has family problems or personal problems of his own, it is generally practiced that he must leave his post, correct the problems, and move on to start over where no one knows of it. It leaves him tempted to make it or fake it. He can't confess his sins and remain in his position because he has become the exemplar of godly living for others to follow. Many have learned to live by different rules and biblical precedents by pretending to be the flawless example of personal godliness, a great husband, and a parent that all would recognize as worthy of imitation. Beyond his own examples, he must know the Bible and have ready answers to all questions that are asked. After all, he is the professional hireling who is expected to occupy a prestigious place of leadership that is convincing for people to follow.

There is often confusion over the roles between the more permanent leadership and the hireling preachers. If the emotional pulse of the church is low and memberships are waning, you can be sure that a change is expected to take place. He becomes the fall guy, easily replaced in hopes that the church is rejuvenated and back on track with larger attendees and happy smiles from a membership who is recharged from the exciting weekly pep rallies.

Admittedly, the description offered in this episode is inflated as not every local church has all the descriptions of this podcast. However, these are some of the effects of a system that we believe is authored by man for his pleasure, not by God.