Scripture: Ephesians 4:11-13
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
Observation
“Christ then gives gifted leaders to the church, but those mentioned in v. 11 were not to do all the work for the people but were to train the people to do the work themselves. In other words, the body of Christ does not have two classes of members—clergy and laity—or two sets of expectations.” Bible Gateway Chapter Overview
Application
I love this! Jesus has the same expectations for us all. It is not only Pastor Levi’s job to go and pray for the sick, to make disciples, to notice those in need – it is our job! We cannot sit back and expect others to be the church – we are all the church and Jesus expects us all to go, to minister, and to serve!
“The church gathers occasionally but ministers 24/7 - 365. So, if all you are doing is hearing the word and you are not investing in other people to help them become more like Jesus, then you are fighting against Jesus.” By and For the Gospel
As we spend time together, serving together, focused on a common goal (Love God, Love People, Make Disciples), we also encourage, challenge, and support each other - helping others to grow and become more like Christ.
Prayer
Lord, make us a church full of people with a common goal – to know you and to make you known. May we not sit back and let others do the work and reap the reward. Use each one of us to meet needs and to serve each other and the world around us. Grow us in unity, wisdom, and faith. Amen
- Debbie Dunn
