CREDENTIALING

The call to the ministry is a serious and sober matter. The apostle James said, “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know we who teach will be judged more strictly.” (James 3:1) Jesus said, “To whom much is given, much is required.”

While the call may come with great joy, anticipation, and expectation, it carries with it the surety that the fire of refinement will be greater than that of those not called to lead. This is because the “ministry” is not about a job or a position; it is about a lifestyle of servanthood.

Consider carefully Paul’s charge to Timothy in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.

What We Offer

LICENSED MINISTER

A licensed minister is considered to be a full-fledged minister of the Gospel by Gateway International. Authorized to preach, lead worship services, officiate at the Lord's Supper, baptize, conduct weddings and funerals under his overseer’s direction and approval. A licensed minister must understand and fulfill the Gateway International License Candidate Criteria and one year of service prior to his/her license becoming permanent. Unless pastoring their own church a licensed minister must be a member in good standing of a local fellowship.

ORDAINED MINISTER

An ordained Minister is an individual who is fully trained and experienced for the Christian Ministry. This is signified by a public act of the laying on of hands by duly authorized Gateway International representative (s). In order to be eligible for ordination by Gateway International, you must either (1) been previously ordained by some other recognized Christian group. (2) been a licensed minister of the Gateway International for at least one year of public ministry. All candidates for ordination must take the written examination designed to determine their ability to present and defend the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

CREDENTIAL TRANSFERS

Those desiring to transfer ordination credentials to Gateway International from another organization may apply to do so, providing that they are in agreement with the basic requirements of Gateway International. Acceptance is subject to approval and recommendation by the Regional/National Interview Panel and the Core Team.

License & Ordination Candidate Criteria

PERSONAL SPIRITUAL GROWTH & CHARACTER

Successful Candidates have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Accepted the Bible as their guide for living. Have a stable marriage relationship, if married. And demonstrate a commitment to individual and corporate spiritual disciplines that result in ongoing spiritual growth.

* We interpret Paul’s admonitions regarding marriage in 1 Timothy 3, “the husband of but one wife,” to refer to the act of bigamy.

While we don’t disqualify candidates who have been divorced and/or remarried, we do reserve the right to question them regarding these matters and to hold them accountable in their marriages just as we would any other candidate.

SOUND DOCTRINE

Successful Candidates shall be committed to the Gateway International Statement of Faith and demonstrate the ability to communicate sound doctrine.

CALLING AND LEADERSHIP

Successful Candidates shall demonstrate a call to ministry and have that calling confirmed by others. Be recognized by leadership of Gateway International or a related ministry as a person with a call to Christian ministry and service, bearing fruit. Demonstrate a commitment to leadership development and networking in their community of residence. Demonstrate Christian leadership character as described in Titus 1:5-9 and 1 Timothy 3:1-13

MINISTRY WITH GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL

Under most circumstances, applicants must be partners of Gateway International for six months before applying for credentials. Regularly attend Gateway International meetings or be in relationship with leadership for at least one year. Faithfully and consistently support Gateway International and its leadership with prayer, financial obligations, and active involvement in leadership events and conferences. Receive guidance and counsel from Gateway International. Agree to be in relationship with a mentor, as needed or requested, as recognized by Gateway International.

COMMITMENT TO LOCAL FELLOWSHIP

Candidates shall be an approved and faithful member (attendee) in a local fellowship. Have three years of faithful service of some kind in a local congregation, as indicated in the pastoral reference.