Language matters. That’s why if I hear that word “volunteer” one more time in a church setting, I’m going to officially nominate the word for the “Annoying Word of the Year” award. The church is the work of the Holy Spirit bringing Christ to life, not through “volunteers” but through “members” of the body of Christ.

The world has casual helpers called “volunteers” that come and go. The church has committed members and dedicated disciples, active participants in the Lord’s mission who are united in their devotion to Christ and each other.