By“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,” — Ephesians 4:11 - 12 NKJV
When organisations want to expand their impact, they focus on building structures and training more people to lead in positions, so they can train other subordinates to work with them and take their place when they are not around or leave. This principle of building organisations some people have been using did not originate from the world but from Jesus.
When Jesus came into the world, He chose twelve apostles to work with and train. Before He left, at least eleven knew about the gospel and were ready to preach it when the Holy Spirit came upon their lives at Pentecost. When Jesus wanted to build His Church, He used people. The good news is that He still does this, and that system still works.
In Ephesians 4:11-12, we see that Jesus gave some apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists and teachers. But for what? To equip the saints (believers in Christ); in order to do the work of the ministry and to edify the body of Christ (the Church). So that everyone will mature and attain the measure of Christ everywhere (Ephesians 4:13).
Even though the gifts Jesus gave were numbered five according to the book of Ephesians, the main point is that Jesus departmentalised His team of believers to do the work of the ministry.
Remember that it’s God’s will to saturate everywhere with Christ (Ephesians 4:10). And it’s the believers in Christ which will do that work.
Friend, your pastor isn’t only teaching you God’s Word merely for you to receive. No! God is instructing and empowering Him to teach you His ways, so you can represent Christ well, no matter which profession you’re involved in. You may not serve directly in your church. However, become a part of the ongoing building of the global church by seeing and glorifying Jesus in all that you do.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer
Father, empower me to do the work of the ministry. When I get exhausted for doing Your purposeful work, give me rest. Assist me to labour effectively in places You’ve called me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2023 – 111
