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.

TO PONDER

Have you ever stopped to actually consider what each of these roles are? They must be different from each other, or there would be no reason for Paul to mention each by name. So, a quick look at each; an apostle is one sent with a mission. A prophet is an inspired teacher or proclaimer of the word of God. An evangelist is someone who proclaims the good news of Jesus. A pastor shepherd, someone who is called to lead and look after those in their ‘flock’. A teacher is one able to impart truth or wisdom for life. It is very clear that no one person is able to do all these jobs. Also, it is clear then that each role is given by Jesus, and each is important for the church to be all it is meant to be. It follows then that many will need to fill these roles. None of these roles are for the glory of those exercising them, but rather so the church can be built up and attain the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. So, which role do you believe God may be calling you to?

PRAYER: Jesus, thank you that you call each of us to perform our own unique roles within your church. Help me to understand and be excited about me role, and help me to carry it out with humility and love, so that there might be unity within my community of faith. Amen.

Today's devotion written by Elise von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle