This week Pastor Stephen delivered the first message in this latest six-part series about the five-fold ministry giftings, called "Where Did All the _______'s Go?". We are looking at Paul's letter to the church in the city of Ephesus; specifically, Ephesians 4:7-16.
Here's this week's big thing: Jesus has given you a gift for ministry: what is it and how will you use it?
Pastor Stephen pointed out that the ministry giftings are still around, but we have long suppressed the ones that make us uncomfortable. We have also told churchgoers that only those who are paid to do ministry have ministry gifts, but that needs to change because everyone has been gifted in a combination of these five gifts. Everyone is called to participate in ministry and sharing the Good News of Jesus!
Many will also find themselves in leadership positions where they can work to equip the church to do ministry more effectively.
Everyone is called to participate in ministry and sharing the Good News of Jesus!
Next we found that Jesus not only gives the church these five gifts, but actually used all five throughout his earthly ministry. Jesus is an example of what they are and how they can be used, and he has given them to the Church so we can carry on his ministry! Therefore, as we read the Bible we learn that Jesus was an Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, and a Teacher.
Which of the Gifts have you been given?
Our ministries may look different from one another, but we are ALL called to reach the unchurched and disciple believers to be like Jesus.
One of the ways we can learn what our giftings are is to take a short test at www.fivefoldministrytest.com.
Our ministries may look different from one another, but we are ALL called to reach the unchurched and disciple believers to be like Jesus.
After you find out what this test says, send Pastor Stephen an email and include your name and your top two ministry giftings and if you agree with what the test said.
Then, read and pray over this passage in the Bible and ask God to show you how you can best use the gifts he has given you.
Each of the next five weeks we're going to look at one of these ministry gifts and learn what it is, what it's for, and how you can put it to use.
Be sure to catch the full sermon on our new podcast page!