Christian Becoming Month
Equipped to Serve
By Pastor Trevor Crenshaw
For too long, the burden of ministry felt heavy on Pastor Michael’s shoulders. He pondered whether he could continue as Christ’s Kingdom and Church Ministries (CKCM) pastor. Then came his sermons on Ephesians 4:11-16, about equipping everyone to serve. From them, Quiet Sarah, who always in the back, realized her knack for organizing could be a ministry. She tamed the chaotic supply closet and streamlined event sign-ups, freeing up others to serve in other areas. Thinking his carpentry was just for home, Retired David heard the call for every “ligament” to work. He built a beautiful new welcome sign and quietly fixed church repairs.
As Sarah, David, and others discovered their unique service, a change swept through CKCM. Sunday school thrived with organized materials, Outreach reached more people with smoother logistics, and shared energy filled the air. Pastor Michael, no longer a lone weaver, watched the vibrant tapestry of his church grow richer and stronger. Each member, a vital thread, was finally contributing their unique color, weaving together a beautiful picture of a church serving and growing in love, just as intended.
As I reflect on the beautiful tapestry of the church, my heart returns to the powerful words of Paul in Ephesians 4:11-16. This passage isn’t just a historical description of the early church; it’s a vibrant blueprint for how we, as God’s people locally, regionally, and globally, are called to function and flourish today.
Paul reminds us that Christ has generously gifted His church with apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (Eph. 4:11). These gifted servant-leaders aren’t meant to be the sole players on the field, but rather equippers – individuals called to prepare the saints, for the work of ministry (Eph. 4:12). Think of it like a skilled coach preparing each member of the team to play their vital role.
Why this emphasis on equipping? In Ephesians 4:13, Paul offers the glorious answer: “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (NIV). God’s desire isn’t for a few to carry the burden of ministry service, but for all of us to grow together in our understanding of Jesus, reaching spiritual maturity as one unified body.
Imagine the power of a church where every member feels equipped and empowered to use their unique gifts to serve. This vision isn’t about filling volunteer slots but discovering our God-given passions and talents and channeling them into meaningful service that builds up the Kingdom. Whether it’s teaching a Christian Education Session, offering a listening ear, helping with practical needs, sharing our faith with a neighbor, or using our skills for God’s glory – every act of service, done in love, contributes to the health and growth of our church.
This equipping isn’t just about individual action; it’s deeply intertwined with our life together. In Ephesians 4:15, Paul directs the church to “speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.” We collectively mature as we encourage one another, share our experiences, and even challenge each other with love and truth. We learn from each other’s strengths, support each other in our weaknesses, and become a more accurate reflection of Christ. In Ephesians 4:16, Paul beautifully illustrates this: “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Like a physical body where every muscle, tendon, and ligament works harmoniously, our church thrives when each member actively contributes. Our unique “supporting ligament” – our specific gift and willingness to serve – is essential for our congregation’s overall health and growth.
So, I encourage you to consider the following:
What are the gifts and passions God has placed within you?
How are you currently using those gifts to serve in our church or community?
What steps will you take to equip yourself for ministry service?
Are there areas where you’d like to learn and grow?
Our leadership is committed to providing opportunities for equipping – through teaching, training, mentorship, and creating spaces for you to step into service. However, the initiative also lies with each of us to say, “Here I am, Lord, use me” (Is. 6:8). Let’s embrace this vision of a church where every member equips others, every gift holds value, and we grow into the full stature of Christ, building ourselves up in love.