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

OK. Wow. Alright, buckle up. This is a verse so much for our time. We have become very used to the model of church we practice and the cultural perception of hierarchy from bishop down to pastor, down to the people we call ‘lay’, but that hierarchy is an illusion that only exists in our imaginations. Bishops have a function to fulfil, but they are not rulers over the church. Pastors also have a function to fulfil but neither are they to rule over anyone. (check out Matt. 20:25-27). And here is the big surprise, there are no lay-people in the church because all are called, chosen, appointed and ordained to the mission of the Good News and of loving service to those who serve others – loving God, neighbour as yourself – loving as we have been loved.

Everyone is called! Apostles go and plant churches, even now, not only the first twelve witnesses. Prophets speak out the Good News of God to the people of God. Evangelists draw those in darkness into the wonderful light by seeking out people of peace. Pastors care for groups of people and guide them into the truth of Jesus.  Teachers equip Y’all for life and your part in Jesus’ mission. NO MORE LAYPEOPLE, only the priesthood, the church.

We will all share in the above roles at least in small ways on different occasions, but some among you will find it to be your primary role, as the role was intended by God and not as a particular denomination has limited that role by defining the Spirit and freedom out of it.

Apostles may well go to lead a church plant, but they will need the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, teachers and God’s people, the priesthood of all believers, to build the local church.

PRAYER: Lord God, Holy Father, keep me from false humility and from denying your call to serve those who serve others. Give me a greater capacity for faith, hope and love, so that I may serv you with courage and determination. Amen.

Today's devotion written by David Schuppan, LifeWay Illawarra