Two models of ministry

Michael Horton, one of our most insightful Christian writers, has a striking article in “Touchstone,” entitled All Crossed Up about two models of ministry and worship. He describes them with this set of dichotomies:

Ordinary Extraordinary
Communal Individualistic
Predictable and Disciplined Spontaneous and “Authentic”
Respectful of office Respectful of persons
Hierarchical Egalitarian
Patient Restless
Receptive Expressive
Mediated Immediate
Wise/Knowledgeable Practical/Intuitive
Custodial/Pastoral Entrepreneurial
Formal Casual
Mature Creative
Traditional Innovative
Deferential Independent

He argues that whereas the Bible and historic Christianity favor the left-hand side, today’s church culture favors the right-hand side.