The Role of the Layman in the Reformed Tradition

Navigating Life as an Everyday Christian in the Church

Early in my walk, as a man who isn’t a clergyman, a pastor, or one who has their PhD in theological studies, I would often find myself sometimes bitter after a sermon or counseling session with my pastor thinking something along the lines of, “Well that’s easy for you to say… You’re paid to read your Bible and theology books for 8 hours a day.” I understand now that that’s NOT what pastors do. Many of them are overworked, and bear the burden of tragedy or trauma on a daily basis.

Occasionally, I have heard certain pastors, and even celebrity pastors espouse a sort of pietistic tone that, when it comes down from the pulpit, it can make the listener feel as though if they are not saved because they don’t feel called to vocational ministry. For example, there’s a Paul Washer message where he said something along the lines of “Godly men should want to read their bibles for 8 hours a day.” Statements like that can rip your assurance right out of your heart. There’s a “yes and no” to that. Yes, of course I want to be filled with the Word of Life constantly. No, AND according to scripture, I have duties to fulfill outside of reading scripture all day long. I have to go to work, I have to take care of my wife and kid, I have to fight sin, run errands, do chores, etc. Christians are not to be “monks.” And the pastors role is to equip us for the WORK of the ministry, and to teach us HOW to live out our daily lives as Christians in all areas.

In the Reformed tradition, we hear much about the importance of sound doctrine, the preaching of the Word, and the sacraments. These elements, central to church life, are often rightly associated with the work of pastors and elders. But sometimes overlooked is the essential role that laymen—ordinary members of the congregation—play in the health, vitality, and mission of the church. The Reformation itself, which reclaimed biblical authority and the priesthood of all believers, was a movement that brought laypeople back into an active role in the spiritual life of the church. This article explores the biblical foundation for lay involvement, the historical significance of laymen in Reformed church life, and practical ways ordinary believers can serve as the hands and feet of Christ in their local congregations and beyond.

The Biblical Foundation: The Priesthood of All Believers

One of the key theological recoveries of the Reformation was the doctrine of the "priesthood of all believers." This doctrine, rooted in texts like 1 Peter 2:9 "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession", teaches that every Christian, regardless of their position or office, has direct access to God through Christ and shares in the responsibility of the ministry of the church.

In the Old Testament, the priesthood was a distinct office, but with the coming of Christ, the final High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16), this priestly role was expanded to include all believers. This shift does not diminish the importance of church offices such as pastors, elders, and deacons, but it does mean that the work of the ministry is not limited to them. Ephesians 4:12 teaches that the role of pastors and teachers is "to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." In other words, the entire church is called to ministry, not just its leaders.

2. Historical Examples: Lay Leadership in Reformed Tradition

Throughout history, the Reformed tradition has always emphasized the role of laymen in the church. John Calvin, for example, recognized the importance of lay elders who helped govern the church alongside pastors. These "ruling elders" served in various capacities—providing spiritual care, offering wisdom, and maintaining discipline in the church. The office of elder itself demonstrates how the Reformed church has never been a clergy-centered institution but one where ordinary men, guided by biblical qualifications, could serve alongside ministers to lead the congregation.

Beyond official offices, laypeople have historically been the driving force behind missionary movements, education, charity, and church planting. Particular Baptist, William Carey, often considered the "father of modern missions," was not a trained theologian but a humble cobbler with a passion for the gospel. His efforts sparked a worldwide missionary movement, reminding us that God's calling often extends beyond the pulpit.

The Reformed tradition has also emphasized the role of laypeople in the family. The Puritans, in particular, stressed the importance of family worship, with fathers leading their households in prayer, scripture reading, and catechism. This focus on family discipleship reflects the broader understanding that laymen are responsible for spiritual leadership, not only in the church but also in the home.

Practical Ways Laymen Can Serve Today

In today’s church context, laymen have countless opportunities to serve in both formal and informal capacities. The Bible teaches that the church is like a body, with each part serving a unique and vital function (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Every believer has been given spiritual gifts, and these gifts are meant to be used for the building up of the church.

Here are several practical ways laymen can serve in the church today:

• Teaching and Discipling: Laymen can take an active role in teaching Bible studies, leading small groups, or mentoring younger believers. Titus 2 calls older men to instruct younger men, modeling godliness in both life and doctrine.

• Service and Mercy Ministries: Deacons are tasked with mercy ministry, but they often rely on laypeople to help meet the practical needs of the church body. This can include organizing meals for those in need, visiting the sick, or helping with financial stewardship ministries.

• Prayer and Encouragement: Laymen can commit themselves to prayer for their church and its leaders. In a world full of discouragement, offering words of encouragement, sending a card, or making a phone call can be a powerful way to build up the body of Christ.

• Evangelism and Outreach: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is given to all believers. Laymen are on the front lines of evangelism, whether at work, in their neighborhoods, or through participation in organized outreach efforts. They can live out their faith by showing hospitality, sharing the gospel, and modeling Christlike behavior in everyday life.

• Family Leadership: Laymen are called to shepherd their families well. Leading family devotions, teaching children the faith, and modeling Christian love in marriage are essential aspects of spiritual leadership. As Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reminds us, parents are called to diligently teach their children God’s commands in every aspect of life.

The Challenges and the Call

Being a layman in the church can feel overwhelming at times, especially in a culture that often prioritizes personal success and individualism over service to others. But Scripture calls us to see our everyday vocations and responsibilities as sacred work for the kingdom of God. Whether we are changing diapers, working in an office, running a business, or leading a Bible study, we are called to serve Christ and His church in all that we do.

The Reformed tradition provides a rich theological foundation that equips and encourages laymen to take their roles seriously. Laymen are not passive spectators in the life of the church, or just a bunch of overweight (no christian man should be overweight. Topic for another article) bearded guys that sit around smoking cigars reading theology books pretending to be Charles Spurgeon, but active participants in its mission. Every Christian has a part to play in advancing the gospel and building up the body of Christ. As we rediscover the role of laymen, may we be faithful to live out our priestly calling in our homes, churches, and communities for the glory of God and the good of His people.

Conclusion

In the Reformed tradition, the role of the layman is not a peripheral or optional one but central to the health of the church. From the priesthood of all believers to the historical examples of lay leadership, Reformed theology calls all Christians—whether pastors or congregants—to serve faithfully in their God-given roles. In a world that often emphasizes professionalism and expertise, let us remember that the church thrives when every member, empowered by the Spirit, contributes to its ministry. Whether in teaching, service, prayer, or evangelism, the layman’s role is vital. Now more than ever, the church needs engaged and active laymen who are committed to living out the gospel in their everyday lives.