Answering the Call: How to Get Ordained Online Biblically

Discerning the Call: A Deeper Look at the Heart of Ministry

Responding to a Call, Not Chasing a Title

When people search “how to get ordained” or “how to become ordained,” it often signals something deeper than a desire for credentials—it reveals a holy stirring. This isn’t about climbing a ladder, but kneeling before the Lord. Ordination doesn’t begin with an application—it begins with an awakening. It is God who calls; the church merely confirms what heaven has already spoken.

Most of our members share a strikingly similar journey: a quiet but undeniable sense that God was calling them into ministry. From that moment, they began seeking a path—not to popularity, but to obedience. Along the way, they often encounter organizations offering a smorgasbord of spiritualities. But sincere followers of Jesus Christ aren’t interested in a “buffet” of beliefs. They want something anchored—something biblical. Universalism, syncretism, and watered-down Christianity leave them unsettled. Why? Because the Spirit within them hungers for holiness, not hype.

The path to ordination begins not with ambition, but with surrender—not to a board, but to the Lordship of Christ. Before ordination happens on paper, it must happen in the heart. It’s the moment your will bows to His, and your life becomes a vessel for His purposes.

Many NACM ministers testify that their first step was simply asking: “Lord, are You calling me?” That question, when asked with humility and an open heart, has launched lifelong journeys into ministry, missions, evangelism, counseling, and pastoral care.

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” — Matthew 9:37–38 (ESV)


Online Ordination: Faith Meets Technology for the Kingdom

Thanks to today’s tools, you no longer have to uproot your life or take on massive student loans to fulfill God’s calling. When you get ordained online through a biblically faithful organization like NACM, you’re not compromising your preparation — you’re simply accessing it through modern means.

Some may ask, “Is it biblical to get ordained online?” The answer is found in Acts. In the early Church, ordination often came through affirmation, prayer, and laying on of hands — not a seminary degree or a denominational headquarters.

At NACM, we uphold that same spirit of biblical confirmation while using online technology to reach those who are called but unable to attend traditional routes. It’s not about location — it’s about the fruit of your life and your commitment to serve faithfully. Whether you feel called to rural ministry, inner-city outreach, online evangelism, or house church planting, our goal is to equip you biblically, legally, and relationally.


Ministerial Authority: Biblically Supported and Legal

Ordination with NACM is legally recognized in all 50 U.S. states. That means your credential allows you to:

  • Plant or Pastor Churches
  • Provide spiritual guidance and pastoral care

  • Support outreach and community ministries

  • Minister to the homeless and hurting
  • Lead baptisms, dedications and funerals 

  • Lead small groups and fellowships
  • Officiate weddings (where permitted)

But we never forget that legal authority without spiritual integrity is hollow. That’s why our ordination process is rooted in your testimony, your alignment with evangelical doctrine, walk with Christ, interview by the Elders and the Laying on of Hands (something we do for our members).

“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” — 1 Timothy 5:17 (ESV)


Ordained to Serve, Not to Be Served

There is a sobering truth behind the call to ministry: it is a call to selflessness.

Online ordination through NACM is not to gain a platform — it’s to gain a towel and a basin, like our Savior, who washed the feet of His disciples. True ministry is not about recognition but about reconciliation. It is not about applause, but about obedience.

We remind every minister: you are not here to promote yourself, but to exalt Christ. Whether your church meets in a living room or a building, the goal remains the same — to preach the Gospel, make disciples, and advance the Kingdom.


Ministry Support After Ordination

One of the most overlooked aspects of getting ordained is what happens after.

At NACM, we don’t disappear after you receive your ordination confirmation. In fact, that’s when the real work begins — and we’re with you every step of the way.

Post-Ordination Support Includes:

  • Fellowship with thousands of fellow ministers

  • Forums for theological discussion and ministry advice

  • Resources for sermon preparation and discipleship

  • Ongoing training to strengthen your calling

  • Opportunities for encouragement, prayer, and shared growth

  • The Extensive NACM Manual to Ministry

You’ll never walk alone. We believe in true biblical community — where ministers sharpen one another, bear one another’s burdens, and walk in love and accountability.


What We Look for in Candidates

When people search how to become ordained, they often assume it requires perfection or seminary-level knowledge. It doesn’t. Here’s what we really seek:

Spiritual Attributes:

  • A clear testimony of salvation in Christ

  • A heart to serve others, not self

  • A willingness to grow in the Word and Spirit

  • A lifestyle of integrity, humility, and discipleship

  • Strict Adherence to what the Bible says about Sexuality   

  • Not required to register as a sex offender (Must be blameless Titus 1:7. Having to register holds public blame)

Doctrinal Agreement:

  • Belief in the Bible as the authoritative Word of God

  • Confession of Jesus Christ as Savior, Lord and King
  • Agreement with Essential Christian Doctrines (Our Statement of Faith)

  • Our Shared Values in Christianity 
  • A Commitment to Advancing the Gospel and Uniting the Body of Christ (Our Vision)

Legal Readiness:

  • Awareness of state laws (especially for weddings)

  • Commitment to ethical and lawful conduct in ministry

“Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” — 1 Timothy 4:16 (ESV)


Common Questions About Online Ordination

Is online ordination valid?

Yes, NACM ordination is both biblically grounded and legally recognized across the U.S. We provide credentials accepted for officiating weddings, conducting baptisms, and leading churches.

Do I have to pay for ordination?

No. We do not charge for ordination or require any donation for membership. We operate by biblical principles and reject commercialized ministry. However, operation has expenses. We use purchases from our Spirit Shop to cover these costs.

Do you Offer Degrees 

No! We are not a diploma mill. Degrees are granted by accredited universities under the standards of the Department of US Education. The Bible never mentions academic degrees being the mission of the Church, nor does it imply that the church has the authority to grant them. Any “school of Churches” calming otherwise is very suspicious! Regarding US citizens, we have no interest in applicants who dishonestly claim they have degrees which were not earned or accredited to receive federal student assistance.  

What if I’m not ready to preach?

That’s okay. Ministry takes many forms. Some are called to teach, some to lead prayer groups, others to encourage, counsel, or serve quietly. We’ll help you discern and grow into your calling.


Begin the Journey — Your Call, His Glory

If you’ve read this far, you’re likely not here by accident. You’ve sensed the Spirit. You’ve asked how to get ordained or wondered what it would mean to step fully into your calling.

The next step is simpleand sacred: respond.

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service.” — 1 Timothy 1:12 (NIV)

Whether you feel drawn to lead, teach, counsel, or serve, NACM offers a trusted path to get ordained online that honors God, Scripture, and the legal expectations of ministry. Start today — not to earn a title, but to live a testimony.

Note: Only Sincere Applicants who believe they are being called by God Should Apply. This is not a game, it is real ministry. Honor God with Truth.

 Confirm our Statement of Faith, and Apply for Membership Now

Answer your call to ministry National Association of Christian Ministers