Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"For the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."
Text: Ephesians 4:12
SAINTS EQUIPPED FOR THE MINISTRY
As the believer grows in his knowledge of Christ and in his faith, he soon discovers many other things. He learns much about “the work of the ministry”. The infant Church in Jerusalem found its hands full with the following challenges (Cf. Acts 2:41-47). The ministry is perhaps more easily seen when it is delineated.
1. The work of reaching out to the multitude [Acts 2:37-40 (work of the evangelist)]
2. Preparing and baptizing believers [Acts 2:41 (teaching ministry)]
3. Further instruction of new believers [Acts 2:42 (laying of foundation)]
4. Fellowship among the brethren [Acts 2:42 (pastoral care)]
5. Prayer [Acts 2:42 (pastoral care)]
6. Caring for each other (practical concerns) [Acts 2:44-45 (pastoral care)]
CHALLENGES OF THE MINISTRY
It seems natural to do all of the above. However, the practical reality is quite different. Strife could occur and that could threaten the stability of the Church. Such an incident occurred in the fledgling Jerusalem Church.
In their desire to look after the physical needs of widows, there a problem arose. There was discrimination against the Greek speaking Jews. The Hebrew speaking Jews neglected the Greek speaking Jews in their daily distribution of food.
Peter, the leading apostle in the Jerusalem Church stood up and suggested that specially equipped saints be found to help them in this ministry.
It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God
and serve tables.
Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men
of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom,
whom we may appoint over this business.
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to
the ministry of the word.
ACTS 6:2-4
Peter highlighted the kind of “equipped saints” the Church would need. Three things were pre-requisites. They are still relevant and vital for ministry today.