The first church recognised a diversity of spiritual giftsand callings, affirming that God equips each believer for ministry (1 Corinthians 12). Among these are the fivefold ministry gifts listed in Ephesians 4:11: Apostles: The Greek term ‘apostolos’ means ‘one who is sent.’ Every follower of Jesus is an apostle, for we have all been sent by God, but some occupy the role of Apostle in a more formal sense. These are the foundational leaders and church planters. Prophets: To prophecy is to speak God’s message, foretelling or forthtelling revelations from God and providing spiritual insight. Again, every disciple is a prophet. Every believer has been given the power to hear God and to share what they have heard, where appropriate. As is the case with apostles, some will occupy the
role of Prophet in a more formal capacity. Evangelists: To evangelise is to share the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s a role that all disciples occupy, but which some fulfil in a formal capacity, serving as leaders in the work of Gospel proclamation and church building. Pastors(Shepherds): A pastor in the Christian Church is one who watches over the souls of others, and who reaches out in love and care to those in any
kind of need. This should describe every disciple. As is the case with the other ministry gifts, some occupy the role of pastor as a recognised position with defined responsibilities. These men and women are caregivers who nurture and guide the flock of Christ. Teachers: To teach is to instruct and train in God’s truth. We all have a responsibility to share what we know with others, but there are those whose ministry is specifically to teach. These are instructors who faithfully communicate sound doctrine to build up the Body of Christ. These roles are not so much titles, but spiritual functions given “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for buildingup the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). They serve the church, not controlit, and are to operate in unity and humility. Do you know your own ministry gifts? If not, ask God to show you today.