I think sometimes we wrongly think that the only people who make a difference or have “impact” for God are the “professionals.” You know, the pastors, evangelists, worship leaders, authors, etc.
Sure, as Christ Followers we’d never say that out loud; but we think it and often act and even live like it. We know the passages in the Bible that talk about every part [or person] of the “body” [or church] being important; but we often equate ourselves as the “pinky toe” – you know…necessary, but usually not seen (except in season).
I read a verse today that reminded me that, in addition to the “professionals”, it’s regular folk that make a difference or have “impact” for God – in some cases even greater than the pros.
Erastus, who is the city’s director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings.
Romans 16:23
Here, at the end of his letter to the churches in Rome, Paul mentions a bunch of specific people to greet and also lists people who send their greetings. For whatever reason, Erastus’ job is listed instead of simply calling him a fellow worker, friend, or brother.
Honestly, when I first read this, I thought Eratsus was the sewer coordinator for Corinth; but a check of the Greek shows that he was the city treasurer. At any rate, dude was not a church “professional” as we usually categorize people.
Anyway, Erastus’ job title just struck me and reminded me that we all are important and contributing parts of the body of Christ.
REMEMBER: It’s not just for the “Professionals”
– Dennis…just a regular, old, security [φύλακα] dude.
DENNARR(dot)COM 
INDEED!
The purpose of “professionals”–those paid by the local church body–is to equip the huge numbers of those they serve who have the more significant connection to their cubicle mate, colleagues or fellow students. Often, that is not proclaimed loudly enough.
Really, your point should not be a shy one. The measure Paul put to himself–who was bi vocational at the least–was not a written resume but the changed lives and hearts of people. (2Cor)
So, as one of these professionals my only claim to anything is not my personal work or efforts but the actual deposit of life into others. With living such a calling the responsibility is huge and accountability in eternity as the writer of Hebrews reminds us. So, really its good that not too many become “professional Christians”! Really.
Thanks Rich – for your comment and for your leadership and equipping!