“And [His gifts to the church were varied and] He Himself appointed some as apostles [special messengers, representatives], some as prophets [who speak a new message from God to the people], some as evangelists [who spread the good news of salvation], and some as pastors and teachers [to shepherd and guide and instruct], [and He did this] to fully equip and perfect the saints (God’s people) for works of service, to build up the body of Christ [the church]” ~ Ephesians 4:11-12 AMP
In today’s passage, Apostle Paul explains that Jesus gave us special gifts, and the gifts He gave us were men (human beings). These people are gifts to us from God Himself.
- It is such a blessing when God sends such gifts our way. I tell you, God has sent me gifts of people who have changed my life completely.
- I pray you notice the gifts of men and women God brings your way, receive them and value them as such.
And why did God give us these gifts? To equip God’s people (you and I) for the work of ministry! God does not seem to be building need-driven believers and churches, but purpose-driven believers and churches.
Our shepherds and leaders are to equip us for the work of ministry. God expects you and I to be equipped to serve and work in the ministry. Any leader who tries to do God’s work solo will be ineffective and likely die early (or the ministry will die early). Dear leader, raise up workers! Dear child of God, join the workforce!
- We are all supposed to be given the required training and tools to work for the Lord! “To equip God’s people for the work of ministry or works of service.”
- Now, what does work entail? Energy, mind, time, and resources.
- As such, if you’re in a ministry and these four things are not being consumed by the ministry, you’re not working there. Maybe you’re engaging in a hobby or leisure, but it is not work.
What is the end goal of all this? “… so that the body of Christ will be built up.” If you want to grow in God, get equipped and work!
You will be made into something. “… until we all mature into fullness of the measure of Christ…” (v13). The aim of all this is for us to mature and grow into the fullness of the stature of Christ.
“But speaking the truth in love [in all things—both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow up in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head— Christ.
From Him the whole body [the church, in all its various parts], joined and knitted firmly together by what every joint supplies, when each part is working properly, causes the body to grow and mature, building itself up in [unselfish] love.” ~ Ephesians 4:15-16.
- This is how the body of Christ grows: when every part, every individual joins and is working properly!
- Beloved, Jesus Christ has saved us by grace, from the burdens and cares of this world, into His rest.
- But it doesn’t end there. We have been asked to take on His yoke, His burden – which is building His church! (Matthew 11:28-30; Matthew 16:18).
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” ~ Matthew 11:28-30.
- Don’t be part of those who just watch on and at best clap for others. Join in and let’s get to work!
- You have to dirty your hands for God’s Kingdom!
- Jesus is a contractor on a major building project. He is building His church and is calling for labourers – will you join in?
I don’t know about you, but I want to join in what Jesus is doing. I want to join and build His church!
Reflection: How can you join in the work Jesus is doing? What part can can you play in your local church or ministry? (You can consider joining one of our AWG Wings: bit.ly/awg-wings)
Hey, you're blessed and highly favoured and dearly loved!
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