Ephesians 4:11-12.

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25 January, 2024

25

JAN

EPHESIANS 4:11-12.

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.

 

TO PONDER

Jesus set his apostles, the eye witnesses to his ministry, the task of teaching the Gospel, travelling and setting up new churches. The prophets had divine inspiration so both of these had the authority to do this work. The evangelists were tasked with church building, the pastors and teachers worked at encouraging the new congregations or house groups, teaching and encouraging so the body of Christ would be built up.

These words were addressed to the Ephesians who, at that time, were experiencing difficulties with leaders but in the church today we still are to be building up the body of Christ.  It is important that and we continue to read, hear and learn God’s word, BUT beware not to treat the teaching as we might if we watch a history channel or documentary, impressed, then forget or do nothing more about it.

It’s time we each took a look at how we build up the body of the Church, perhaps some new ways to do what we have been doing. Or why not step out in faith and do something completely new that you have not had the courage to do before?  Volunteer to be on your church roster, visit someone who is housebound in your community, volunteer to visit an aged care community or to sit with someone while their carer has a break, help a mum who might be struggling, the list is endless.  The really radical thing you can do is ask your neighbors for a meal, it is easy to start conversation over food. Take your cues from Jesus, seek God’s guidance and take a new step - where? It’s a task book without end.

 

PRAYER

Lord Jesus you gave plans that I might understand my part in building up you church,  but I have not always been diligent in doing this, often too timid or thinking I can’t do that, please forgive my tardiness and give me the courage to step out and consider a whole new way I can build up the body of your church.  Amen.


Today's devotion is written by LifeWay Newcastle member and God's disciple, Maureen Macpherson