The notion of the priesthood of all believers (1 Pet. 2) by no means negates the important and biblical roles within the local church. It also does not denigrate the calling and office of pastor/elder/overseer or that of the deacons (1 Tim. 3 & Titus 1). Instead, this biblical conviction reveals to us that laypeople have vocations and callings of their own that also entail holy responsibilities, authorities, and blessings.
Because of Christ, all believers—like the priests of the Old Testament—may come into the presence of God through the blood of the Lamb. All believers can handle holy things (such as the Bible) which was at one time denied to the laity. All can proclaim the Gospel to those who need its saving message.
"The priesthood of all believers means that all Christians enjoy the same access to Christ and are spiritually equal before Him. The priesthood of all believers did not make everyone into church workers; rather, it turned every kind of work into a sacred calling"
Source: Gene Edward Veith, God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life
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