Becoming Ordained Online: The Debate

Can God really ordain people through the Internet? What validates the credentials of being an ordained minister? What does it really take? There are two different ways to become an ordained minister: The traditional way and the non-traditional way.

The traditional way involves a Bachelor's degree, seminary schooling and other requirements. Some Christian denominations only accept ordained ministers/pastors if they've come up through the ranks of the church and had their hands laid upon them being "set apart" for service. Even then, the minister's life is thoroughly examined and the minister/pastor is trained for service of the congregation and for God.

The non-traditional way involves signing up online at various online churches or with legal ordination ministries. Anyone meeting the qualifications and willing to submit themselves to a code of ethics can apply and become a recognized pastor/minister (or whichever title they choose), according to various state laws. They are free to pursue setting up a ministry, church, or other types of services as allowed by law. Many traditional denominations do not support this view or avenue of becoming ordained.

Whatever way you choose, be sure you that have a call of God on your life. You answer to God when everything that is said and done. If you feel a strong pull to be an ordained minister (doesn't go away with time), discuss these feelings with your home pastor. If you are already in a denomination that doesn't accept the non-traditional way of ordination, bring it up anyway. There are several scripture studies on the internet related to the theology behind both doctrines. You'll also need to decide what type of ministry you want to concentrate on once you become ordained, whether or not you want to start a place of worship of your own and whether or not you will work in ministry full-time or part-time.

Pray about it, repeatedly, and seek actual Godly advice from church leadership before proceeding. They will be able to see things about you and your situation that you cannot. Plus, they've traveled the road before you and can shed some light on how pursuing that path will change your life.