Are You Equipped?, Ephesians 4

Text
“Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11, NLT).

Insight
God is at work! He is at work conforming believers into the “full and complete standard of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). This is an ongoing process within individual believers and throughout the generations. In this process God desires that we have an increasing unity in our faith and our knowledge of Him and His Son. Are you growing? Are there areas of your life where you need to allow God to work? As a part of the body of Christ, are you doing your part to strengthen the whole?
God has given gifts to the church “to equip God’s people to do his work” (4:12). It is the responsibility and function of apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors and teachers to equip you for growth and maturity. They are called by God to build you up. Their job is to help us deepen our faith and knowledge of God and His Son. Are you connected with one or more of these people so you can grow? Are you connected to someone gifted to equip, and encourage you? Is there a person or group of people you spend regular time with who help you fulfill your responsibility to do God’s work?
Maybe it is time to pursue people with the gifts designed to equip you and encourage you to “do His work.” Maybe its time to grow in your faith and deepen your knowledge of God. Set your sights anew on God’s goal for your life: Conformity to the image of Christ… and partner with those who are designed to help you get there!

Prayer
Father, thank you for the gifts of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Thank you for sending them to build me up and equip me to do Your work. Mold me and shape me into a man that responds life Jesus. In Jesus name, AMEN.