Growing into Christ (7)

And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, …Ephesians 4.11, 12

The Elder and His Work
David Dickson (1821-1885)
“We must try to get all the members of the Church practically interested in the work of Christ, for ‘none of us liveth to himself.’…What each should do will depend on what each can do, for ‘she hath done what she could’ was the Master’s word of approval.”

The Spirit of God indwells every believer. He is at work within us, to will and do of God’s good pleasure. This entails bringing forth fruit consistent with His holiness, gifts to encourage others in growing into Christ, and power to be witnesses for the Lord. Paul insisted that the Spirit has given gifts to all the people of the Lord. However, most of them seem content to allow others to carry the responsibility of ministry. But “work of ministry” simply describes everyday living for Jesus, making the most of every opportunity to touch others with His grace and truth. Every believer is called to this, and every believer must be equipped for such a way of life. Elders and church leaders – the shepherds and teachers of the flock – are given to the church for the equipping of the saints, so that they take up the work of ministry right where they are. Let’s make sure that we work hard to get everyone ready to serve.

Do the equipping ministries of your church reach to every member? Are your members truly being equipped for the work of ministry?

The Fellowship of Ailbe is supported through the generous and faithful gifts of those who benefit from and believe in our work. Does the Lord want to use you in this way? Please look to Him in prayer over this question. You can contribute to The Fellowship of Ailbe by using the Contribute button at our website, or by sending your gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Thank you.

Mission Partners Outreach
Jesus trained and deployed His followers two-by-two, to learn and serve together in proclaiming His Kingdom. Are you following this pattern? Our Mission Partners Outreach provides the resources and framework for making witness-bearing disciples in your church. Want to learn how it works? I’m currently looking for three men to work with me through this six-month training effort, which includes preparing a plan to implement this free training in your own church. Watch this brief video, then contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for more information.

Except as indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.All quotations are from David Dickson, The Elder and His Work (Dallas: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1990).