Equipping lay people for significant ministry is a great idea. But if my experience has taught me anything, it's that there are at least five good reasons not to do it.

If I had a choice between getting all the people in my city to an evangelistic crusade or having a lay person with an infectious love for Jesus work beside each of them at their jobs for one week, I'd certainly choose the latter. The same goes for our church's gatherings: Rather than have a few professionals participate while most watch, I'd choose to see every member actively involved.

At least, that's a more accurate picture of ministry as the New Testament paints it. As with many things, however, great ideas don't readily translate into reality. Consider the following difficulties.

Why Lay Workers Don't Work Out

1. They aren't as competent. I've heard some of the advice well-meaning lay people have passed on to others under the guise of counseling. It's scary. So is sitting through a worship service led by someone who has ...