Ministry gifts II

Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:


What is the difference between the various ministry gifts?

An apostle is someone who pioneers movements, churches and is able to operate in all the five gifts when there is need. He starts a work, mentors and trains leaders like pastors to takeover the work and moves ahead to start other works elsewhere. The signs of an apostle are the strong gifts of the miraculous and healings operating through him. In the church apostles were the first ministry gifts which were developed that's why they are listed first in this scripture. God needs someone even though not in the office of apostle to walk in the apostolic grace to pioneer a work in an area. Apostle remind us that more work needs to be done in unreached areas.

Prophets on the other hand speak forth what the mind of God is about the things which are yet to happen in the future. We are all encouraged to desire to prophesy but not everyone who prophesies is a prophet. The ministry of exhortation and comfort is common in many prophets. They also walk so much in the word of wisdom and knowledge. A prophet ought to confirm the word which is already affirmed in the hearts of men from the Lord. The primary way through which the new testament church receive instructions is not through a prophet but the Holy Spirit. Therefore the prophet ought to confirm what God has already instructed you in. But this is not common to all believers. God is always speaking but we are not always hearing. Prophets are also given to dreams and visions and enjoy communion and intimacy with God through prayer. Prophets remind the body that we need to seek God more and be sensitive to his leading. 

Evangelists are primarily sold out to win the lost. They remind the church that many out there should be brought into the fold. 

Pastors are shepherds of God's flock. They care and look after the sheep by feeding, and nurturing them. Without the pastor, sheep scatter, are confused and lack direction. Pastors of local churches do a great job to ensure this happens. One preacher said, everyone needs a good pastor. Indeed a good pastor is a blessing to a believer. Pastors always remind us that there are people to care for and look after. 

Teachers establish the body of Christ in biblical truths. A good bible teacher grounds believers in the Word so that they are not tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. The teacher reminds us we need to delve deeper in the Word. 

The local church may not have all these gifts but God has placed these gifts in the universal body of Christ. As a Christian, you need to receive ministration from each of these gifts to edify you more for the work of the ministry. This does not mean move from one church to the other, but you can get blessed by any good man of God called in any of these gifts through their sermons, books, etc. although get recommendations from your pastor whom to listen to so that you are not misled.

EK

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