“Oct 21, 2024 - The Goal of Gifts”

Sunday, October 20, 2024

The Goal of Gifts

Reading:  Ephesians 4:7-16
    
    Paul has already spoken about God’s rich grace in saving us from our sins (Eph 1:6-8, 2:5-8) and the grace he received by being named an apostle to the Gentiles (Eph 3:2, 7-8).  Now he discusses how God has given all of us further gifts:  “But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.  Therefore it says, ‘When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men’”(Eph 4:7-8).  As part of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, he also gave unique blessings to all Christians, to be used in his service and to further his will.

    What gifts?  “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ”(Eph 4:11-12).  Jesus has given far more gifts than just these (see, for example, Rom 12:4-8), but Paul wants to focus on the gifts that directly benefit the growth of the body.  Each of these (apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds) speaks to a unique role in communicating God’s will and drawing disciples closer to Jesus.  These gifts “equip the saints for the work of ministry,” preparing and inspiring us to serve others.  We continue to grow “to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine”(Eph 4:13-14).  Steady teaching and consistent progress protect us from false ideas and immaturity.  Every part of the body contributes to the whole.  Every part grows stronger.  Every part builds up the others.  All of us together reflect the greatness of the Lord we serve.  

    When Jesus gives us gifts, they have a purpose.  My gifts are not intended to give me power over others, to benefit my ego, or to enrich me.  Jesus has given us special talents and roles so that we can help our brothers.  We can “equip the saints for the work of ministry” and “(build) up the body of Christ.”  As we grow to recognize our unique set of skills, relationships, and influences, we must begin to ask the question:  how can I use this to bless my brothers and strengthen Christ’s body?

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One Thing to Think About: What are my gifts?  How am I tempted to use them only for myself?

One Thing to Pray For:  The building up of the body of Christ 
 

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