Clarifying Job Descriptions

Posted by Tim

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

If ever there was doubt about what our job descriptions are in the church, it was clarified on Sunday. Pastor Michael Krause took us into two of Paul's writings to point out the call of pastors, and the call for members of the church.

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service to the building up of the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12

Examine that passage, and what it tells us is that the job description of the pastors and teachers is to equip the saints (that's the members of the church) so that the members of the church can do the work of the church and build up the Body of Christ.

So, now you ask, "What is the work of the people of the church?" The answer lies within other passages of Scripture.

And God has appointed in the church, first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administration, various kinds of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:28

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10

The list of spiritual gifts includes some that are mentioned in these two passages, and many more. Are you a helper? Do you have the gift of administration? Is evangelizing something that drives you? Perhaps your gift is giving. Maybe you're called to show hospitality to others. Some have the gift of mercy and others the gift of service. And, for sure, we all think we have the gift of wisdom.

Take a few minutes today or tomorrow to reflect on your gift. Chances are, you already know it. How have you applied it to the Lord's work this past week? How will you use your gift this week? If those around you were asked, would they be able to pinpoint your gift?

And, if by chance you're just not really sure of your gift, set aside the time to review Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 14, and 1 Peter 4. Ask your spouse or someone who knows you well to help you identify your gift, then search the Scriptures for examples of how that gift can be applied.

Let's make it our goal that next year when we worship on the green, we are able to say, "We did church like it's supposed to be done. We have used our gifts to serve others and in the process, glorified God."