Helping Others Discover Their Gifts
Foundational Principle:
God has given us gifts to use for His kingdom. He wants us to work together with other Christians to share God’s love with everyone.
Scripture to Begin:
Ephesians 4:11-13
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
Learning
Everyone needs a sense of purpose, so how does our faith in Jesus inform this truth? Presbyterian minister and writer Frederick Buechner says our calling is found at the intersection between one’s deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger. Nowhere does Buechner (nor scripture for that matter) imply that this is just for pastors, missionaries, or other Christian professionals. We all have a part to play in God’s kingdom.
It takes time to understand our purpose. What excites you about serving God? Is it hosting a movie night for the youth at your church? Maybe you sense God’s Spirit when listening to parents share about their struggles and helping them troubleshoot solutions. Or you may feel right at home attending some social event and having spiritual conversations with those far outside the church context. Think about what brings you joy and what you’re good at.
Pay attention to those moments, as they reveal your unique gifts and talents. As Buechner is quoted, “Listen to your life.” This is where a simple spiritual gifts assessment – like the Five Fold Ministry assessment – can come in handy. This term refers to the five ministry roles of Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher found in Ephesians.
These five roles are essential for building up the kingdom of God:
Apostles, or Dream Awakeners, awaken people to their potential and inspire change.
Prophets, or Heart Revealers, help people understand God’s heart and hear His voice.
Evangelists, or Story Tellers, stir curiosity and desire to know Jesus. They share the “good news” and invite others to join the family of God.
Pastors, or Soul Healers, guide people through difficult times. They create a safe atmosphere and sense of belonging. They bring fun and enjoyment to God’s ministry.
Teachers, or Light Givers, make the truth about God accessible to everyone and easily applicable to one’s life.
Ephesians 4:11-16 teach these gifts should produce the following outcomes:
- Equip the believers for works of service
- Unity of faith
- Increase in knowledge of the triune God and His Kingdom
- Develop strong believers who are secure in their faith
- Train the saints to stand in the face of the challenges and deceits of the world
- Disciple believers in growth and maturity, with an increasing outward manifestation of love
Reflection
Did anything surprise you about your results from the Five Fold Ministry assessment? How do you see these gifts being used in your life currently? In light of your gifts, what might be some new ways God wants to use you?
Applying What We Learn
After reflecting on the gifts God has given you, what is one practical way you can apply this to your life? Is there a specific step of faith God wants you to take as you grow in exercising your spiritual gifts?
GUIDE MAP
Start your journey to build up your local ministry here.
