The Power of Bi-Vocational Ministry: Expanding the Reach of the Local Church
By Jeremy Cali
2 Timothy 2:1-3 – You then my child, be strengthened by the Grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
Bi-vocational pastors—those who work in both ministry and a secular vocation—can play a critical and strategic role in both church planting and the long-term health of the local church. Whether you’re a solo pastor or part of a larger pastoral team, bi-vocational (or co-vocational) ministry is a valuable model for engaging your community, expanding your reach, and building healthy leadership teams within the church.
As Paul calls Timothy to be “Strengthened by the Grace that is in Christ Jesus” we are called to shake off indifference and apathy to the communication and work of the Gospel that has been entrusted to us.
Living on Mission Through Work and Ministry
As a church planting pastor and practicing attorney, I’ve experienced firsthand the beauty and benefit of serving in both the legal profession and pastoral ministry. Early on in our first of three church plants I served in over the last 18 years as a planting elder, a full-time salary wasn’t financially feasible. But even as the churches grew and could have supported me full-time, I realized that stepping away from my vocation might have done more harm than good to the mission we were pursuing.
Why? Because staying bi-vocational kept me connected to people and places I wouldn’t have otherwise reached. I was embedded in my community, engaging in everyday life and building authentic relationships with people far outside the walls of the church—people I may never have met if I’d only been in the church office full time.
Setting Realistic Expectations for Bi-Vocational Elders
Functioning effectively as a bi-vocational elder requires clear communication and healthy expectations. Our elder team took time to define what this would look like in practice. For instance, I typically preached once a month, which gave me the necessary margin to prepare well and handle the Word faithfully. The vocational elder preached most other Sundays. This model allowed each of us to operate within our capacities and calling.
To those considering this path, it might seem overwhelming. But here’s the truth:
Every believer is called to serve according to their spiritual gifts.
Being bi-vocational is not an exception from the calling and qualifications of an elder.
How to Thrive in Bi-Vocational Ministry
1. Expand Your Capacity
Capacity grows as you stretch beyond what you think is possible—without neglecting your soul. Prioritize your spiritual health, your family, and your calling. God honors a life poured out in faithfulness.
2. Embrace the Challenge
The joy and adventure of the Christian life come when we take up the burdens of the mission of Christ. Bi-vocational ministry isn’t just about making ends meet—it’s about intentionally living on mission where God has already placed you.
3. Multiply the Mission
Don’t go it alone. Challenge other men in your congregation who are called to lead to do the same. There are capable, gifted men who long to serve in pastoral roles but don’t feel called to full-time, paid ministry. Without a bi-vocational model, many of these men are sidelined or settle into lesser roles, and the church misses out on their contributions.
The Benefits of Bi-Vocational Leadership
Wider Missional Reach: You’re in spaces and relationships that traditional clergy often can't access.
Sustainable Growth: You can expand your leadership team without blowing the budget.
Church Health: The “one-man ministry model” often leads to burnout. A plurality of elders—some bi-vocational—creates a healthier, more sustainable leadership structure.
Unlock Untapped Potential: Gifted leaders who don’t want or need a salary can step fully into their calling.
Conclusion
Bi-vocational ministry isn’t second-class ministry. It’s not a steppingstone or a stopgap. It’s a legitimate, biblical, and often strategic approach to leadership in the local church. As you pursue the mission God has set before you, consider how your vocation might not be a distraction—but a divine appointment.
Jeremy Cali
Born and raised in Baldwinsville, New York, Jeremy Cali has been in pastoral ministry since 1998. He graduated from Bible school in 1998 and later earned a law degree in 2006. He served as a youth pastor and assistant pastor before working as a teaching elder and pastor for three church plants from 2007 to 2025. In March 2025, Jeremy became an Associate Pastor at Northside Church in Liverpool, New York. He is married to Tricia, and they have four children.