Ephesians 4:12 For the equipping of the Saints for the Work of the Ministry, for the edifying of the Body of Christ.
In prayer this morning, the Spirit said, “Ask my people how they feel when they leave church every Sunday.” How DO you feel when you leave church? According to the Word of God, you should feel equipped and edified for your place in the Work of the Ministry. I would venture to say most people don’t feel this way.
On the other side of that coin, if you have been called as an Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor or Teacher, do you understand that to equip and edify others for their Work in the Ministry is the SOLE PURPOSE God has called you?
If the Word of God is preached and taught correctly, it may bring conviction to the hearts of those hearing, which is a form of equipping. When we are convicted of our sin and repent, the Lord is quick to forgive us. (1 John 1:9)
The more knowledgeable we have about the Word of God, the more God can use us to speak His Word into the lives of others which will equip them in their Work of the Ministry. In addition, to understand the Mercy and Grace of God to forgive us of our sins is extremely encouraging and edifying.
The Message of the Apostle, properly delivered, will also equip and edify everyone who hears it. We all need a clear, distinct Word and Direction from God, and the Called Apostle will bring this. When we understand that God has used this person to convey something specific to us, it is extremely edifying.
The Called Prophet of God will share a Word from the Lord for the entire Body of Christ or over an individual. This is amazingly powerful! When a Prophet speaks, and their words bear witness with your spirit, there is nothing more equipping and edifying.
The Work of the Evangelist is most important because they have been given a heart for lost souls. Without Salvation, we are all doomed. Being born again in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first step to equip us in our Work in the Ministry.
The position of the Pastor is that of a Shepherd and will watch over and care for his flock. This person will possess the Gifts of Mercy and Encouragement. People need to know the Lord loves them and wants the very best for them. Pastors are usually called for help when there is a problem. They respond in love and help in every way they can, but their Calling, like all the others, is to equip and edify the believer to Work in the Ministry.
The Callings of God have nothing to do with the person called. It’s all about God using them to reach others for Christ, equip them for their part in the Work of the Ministry and encourage them in their walk with the Lord.
With that said, if you are a part of a fellowship of believers and sit in the pew of a church, you should leave that place equipped and edified EVERY TIME you go.
On the other hand, if you have been Called to Ministry, please take into consideration that your Calling is to equip and edify all those the Lord has placed under your care and within the sound of your voice. It’s a huge responsibility, and God has gifted you to fulfill the Calling He has placed on your life.
The Lord God Almighty has given us His Pattern for His Church. Like everything else about Him, it’s PERFECT!
God’s Perfect Pattern will……..turn the tide
Blessed, Doreen
