May 7, 2026
11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
For many, the word "ministry" has become extremely daunting and intimidating. This is likely due to our own preconceived notions of what we believe ministry is supposed to be. We tend to think ministry is only reserved for those that want to be pastors or work for the church. While this may be one aspect of the ministry, it is certainly not the whole truth. Our passage today will show us a better definition.
In the verses above, the apostle Paul identifies two parties that make up the whole of the church. On one hand we have the church leaders, which are those separated as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. On the other hand we have the church people, those who are commissioned to do the works of service for the enrichment of Christ's body. In total, we have two distinct groups of people collaborating together to serve and build God's church. It's interesting to note that Paul mentions no other group of people within the verses. According to his view, there is no one left to categorize- everyone has technically been accounted for. Surprisingly, there is no such thing as a third group of bystanders, onlookers, seekers or those who are just sitting disengaged. Therefore, all of the church people are called to lend themselves over to be equipped for the works of service.
Here is where our definition will begin to broaden and widen. When we study further, the actual Greek word Paul used for the term "service" in this verse is naturally translated as the word for "ministry". This means that everyone who finds themselves in the second group is called to be equipped for the "works of ministry". This isn't an optional request sent by God, it is a direct prescription from the pages of Scripture. We are told by Peter that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and God's special possession (1 Peter 2:9). We were created in Christ for good works and called to be ambassadors for His name's sake (Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:20). These words are not meaningless labels, they are reflective of each of our calls to minister and serve within the body of Christ. If ministry was only supposed to stay with the church leaders, then all of these Bible verses would be rendered useless. But we know the truth today and it is undeniable: we are called to minister no matter who we are, what we do or where we have come from.
I'm sure we all have plenty reasons for our own hesitation on this matter. Perhaps you don't have the time, you don't have the knowledge, you can't find your place, you've experienced some hurt, you're afraid of failing or you're simply just unwilling. No matter your situation, the truth of your calling still stands and it will never go away. The good news is that your first step isn't difficult at all. According to our passage, you just need to say yes to the call and obey the Lord's voice. In doing so, He will slowly strip away all of your hesitation and all of your reluctance. It will be Him along with His church leaders that will equip you to live out everything the Lord has for you. Don't ignore His request, say yes to the call and serve as ministers in your Father's house.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, your Holy Spirit has been calling me for a very long time now. I have run from it and even ignored your voice many times. Although I may be hesitant, reluctant and even unqualified, I know I must obey your commands. I give myself over to be used by you wherever you may be calling me. Amen.