Unreasonable request?

I don't think it is unreasonable to ask, at all. But alot of these groups now go out more for publicity for the school than for ministry.

Most drama in churches is more involved with make up and costume. We may not like it, but it is the way things are. That's not to say they short change the message, but for the most part, people expect a higher degree of performance than we used to expect.

 

When I was in college, I always appreciated the chance to preach or teach. One would think that a ministry student might have a "fallback" sermon or familiar lesson just in case a situation like this presents itself.

I don't know the details of the situation, but I do know that the ministry students are missing a good opportunity.

 

Sister,
I hear you! The opportunity that was being offered used to mean a great deal to people in these ministry teams. Usually, you have young men who are looking to enter the ministry and value the experience. Not only is it a perfectly appropriate request; it is surprising to think about the response you received. The argument about finals sounds phony...perhaps he is simply nervous. My first opportunity to preach came at a nursing home...I was very nervous and tried everything that I could think of to get out of it...Praise God that He would not let me.
As to the "performance", I have also noticed this more and more today. We had a group come in from out of state last year. They were not what we expected...it seemed that their attention was not placed on what we believed were the proper priorities(the message of Jesus Christ). They had coordinated moves, outfits and vocals...yet the message seemed absent. We will certainly not be having them back. It reminds me of that line from one of Casting Crowns' songs about trading the altar for a stage.
Anyway, I appreciate what you said about your husband. Far too many pastors are having to work a full-time job to support their family and their ministry which are also both full-time jobs in and of themselves. When you are truly busy, it is definitely hard to put up with ministry slackers. Keep your chin up...I am thankful to know that there are fellow servants such as you and your husband out there.

 

Amen! I the early days of my ministry...I always had a back-up sermon just in case a supply opportunity arose. You rarely get much notice if someone gets sick or has an emergency. I know of one young minister who put his name on an associational supply list, was called, turned down his first two opportunities, and never got called again. When the opportunity arises, you need to be prepared to take it. The Lord does not need more slackers in His service, but men dedicated to serving him whenever the chance occurs. Thank you for pointing out this very important truth.

 

"it just seems like it's all about "THEM""

now you got it you can close the thread now it is answered. :laugh:

 

When I was a young Bible college lad or seminarian, I always had "one in the chamber." Instant in season and out of season. And I often needed it due to being asked at 6:58 if I'd preach the 7pm service. I still to this day am ready to preach at whatever service I'm at, be it on vacation, etc.

That said, let's not pounce on the boy too hard. 1., he may not feel called to preach/teach. 2) These drama teams are what they are. You're getting what you asked for. Don't be surprised that, when you want what you want, you get what you get.

I don't know all the details. But that's just my one and a half cents worth, adjusted for inflation.