THE ESSENCE OF THE GIFT
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 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.”
Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV
In this passage, the phrase “works of service” is translated in the King James Version as “the work of the ministry.”
The Greek word used here for ministry is diakonia, which refers to serving others through acts of Christian love—things like distributing food, meeting physical needs, giving to charities, teaching, praying, sharing words of knowledge, performing healings, and operating in miracles, signs, and wonders. This calling isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s not just for those who stand behind pulpits—it’s for the entire body of Christ. Every believer is included in this charge until we all come into the full knowledge of Him.
Sadly, this scripture is often misunderstood or misused, leading many to believe that only certain leaders are equipped to minister. But Paul’s exhortation is to all who believe. Naturally some things like teaching will have preparatory training accompanying it, but to each is given a burden they are most inclined to. Jesus Himself said, “Whoever believes in Me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these” (John 14:12). That’s your portion, child of God.
As you’ve seen your Master do—so are you called to do. Train your heart and mind to meditate on these truths. Embrace them. Walk in them. Praise the Lord!
Prayer: Loving Father, thank You for the gift of ministry that You have entrusted to every believer. Thank You for equipping us through the power of Your Spirit to serve, to teach, to heal, and to love. Help us to walk in the fullness of that calling—not in fear, but in faith. Open our eyes to see the needs around us and give us the boldness to act as Your hands and feet. Let our lives reflect the greater works You promised, and may Your body be built up in unity, love, and power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• John 14:12
• Mark 16:17
