Priesthood –vs– Preacherhood

Welcome to Priesthood –vs– Preacherhood, an in-depth theological and pastoral course designed to guide clergy, seminarians, and church leaders in rediscovering the biblical and historical calling of the Church as a priestly body – distinct from modern notions of preacher-centered ministry.

In recent decades, a dramatic shift has occurred within many sectors of the Christian Church. The sacred, sacramental, and priestly dimensions of ecclesial life have often been eclipsed by a pulpit-centric model of leadership. What was once a ministry grounded in intercession, sacrament, and spiritual oversight has too often been reduced to performance-driven preaching and platform visibility. This course is a clarion call to reclaim the sacred.

Through scriptural exegesis, patristic insight, and contemporary theological reflection, this course contrasts two competing paradigms:

1. Priesthood: rooted in divine calling, spiritual sacrifice, liturgical order, and apostolic continuity.
2. Preacherhood: often rooted in charisma, oratory, personality, and platform-driven identity.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the biblical foundations of priesthood from Genesis to Revelation.
2. Define the Church’s identity as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9) in continuity with Old Covenant theology (Exodus 19:6).
3. Identify the theological and pastoral differences between priesthood and preacherhood.
4. Discern the historical rise of preacher-centric church culture and its theological risks.
5. Articulate a renewed model of priestly ministry for the Church today.

Course Format

This course is delivered in multiple sessions, each combining:

1. Scriptural study and academic readings
2. PowerPoint presentations
3. Teaching manuscripts
4. Interactive handouts
5. Quizzes and assessments

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is ideal for:

1. Ordained ministers and those in formation
2. Seminarians and theological students
3. Bishops and church leaders
4. Anyone interested in the renewal of the Church’s sacred calling

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people…”

1 Peter 2:9 (KJV)

Let us journey together into a rediscovery of God’s true design for Church leadership – sacred, priestly, and holy unto the Lord.