On Rejecting Kleptoeulogianism

On X (formerly Twitter), Matt Ferris (@ferrismattic) introduces the term κλεπτοευλογία—from klepto (to steal) and eulogia (blessing)—to describe the misappropriation of blessings intended for all believers. When access to spiritual gifts, identity in Christ, or priestly standing is reserved for a select few, we risk denying what Scripture freely gives. Every Christian is a saint (1 Cor 1:2), part of a royal priesthood (1 Pet 2:9), and indwelt by the Spirit (Rom 8:9). Restricting these to an exclusive class is not piety; it is kleptoeulogia.

Ferris' critique recalls the Reformers’ rejection of clerical privilege and their recovery of the priesthood of all believers. While the New Testament affirms distinct offices for shepherding and teaching (Eph 4:11; 1 Tim 3:1–7), it never grants monopoly over divine grace. Faithful ecclesiology affirms spiritual equality and ordered ministry without collapsing one into the other. Ferris’s coinage is timely. The church must resist spiritual gatekeeping and ensure that every member of Christ’s body partakes fully in the blessings of the new covenant. As Ferris' rightfully encourages, "Reject kleptoeulogianism."