Called to Equip, Not to Elevate!

In our last teaching, we touched on Ephesians 4:11–13. Here, the scriptures reveal five precious gifts that Christ has given to His people—the ministries of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher. These roles are not badges of honour or platforms for personal ambition; they are sacred callings, entrusted by Christ Himself, for the purpose of equipping the saints and building up the Body of Christ. It is honourable to be called into these offices, but never as a boastful possession.

Each of these ministries carries a unique grace, not for the exaltation of the individual, but for the strengthening of the whole Body of Christ. When we embrace these gifts rightly, they help the Church to grow in maturity, unity, and purpose. They are not given to elevate a few, but to activate many—to call every believer into a life of faithful service, love, and fruitfulness.

It is important to understand that spiritual function is not limited to holding an office. One does not need to be a prophet to prophesy. Paul clearly distinguishes between the office of a prophet (Ephesians 4:11) and the gift of prophecy, which is available to all believers (1 Corinthians 12:10; 14:1, 31). The prophetic ministry does not exist to dominate the spiritual space, but to awaken the prophetic voice within the wider Body. We are all encouraged to pursue spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, for the edification and encouragement of the Church. A true prophet multiplies the gift, rather than centralising it.

The same is true of teaching. While the teaching office bears the responsibility of rightly dividing the Word with clarity and depth, Hebrews 5:12 challenges us all: by now, we ought to be teachers. Discipleship is not a spectator activity. Every believer is called to grow in their understanding of Scripture, and to share that truth with others. The Great Commission, given by Christ in Matthew 28:19–20, is not simply about making converts, but about making disciples—teaching them to obey all that He has commanded. This is the shared calling of the Church, not the exclusive domain of those with titles.

Evangelism follows the same pattern. While some are especially graced with the office of the evangelist, Paul’s words to Timothy are compelling: “Do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” 2 Timothy 4:5. Evangelism is both a calling and a responsibility. Whether or not we hold the office, each of us has been entrusted with the Gospel message. The harvest is plentiful, and Christ has commissioned all of us to go out into the world with His love and truth.

Each of these five-fold gifts is given to serve the Body, not to control it. Apostles lay foundations, prophets stir the spirit, evangelists awaken boldness, pastors care for the flock, and teachers anchor us in truth. But all of them exist to equip others, to raise up the Church, and to release every believer into their own God-given ministry. Their purpose is not to create dependency, but maturity—not to centralise authority, but to decentralise ministry.

Let us never forget that such callings come with a weight. Paul declared, “Woe is me if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16). He recognised that ministry is not a choice made lightly, but a divine necessity laid upon him. James, too, reminds us that those who teach will be judged more strictly (James 3:1). These are sobering words, calling us to humility, reverence, and full reliance on the grace of God.

Ultimately, the five-fold ministry is not about fame or status—it is about service and faithfulness. It exists to see the whole Body of Christ functioning in love and truth. The Church thrives not when a few are exalted, but when every believer is empowered, equipped, and released into their God-ordained purpose.

What gift has Christ given you for the strengthening of His Body, and how are you using it to serve others?

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gifts you have given to your Church. Help me to honour those you have called and to walk faithfully in the grace you have placed upon my life. Teach me to serve with humility, to grow in maturity, and to build others up in love. May I never seek position over purpose, nor recognition over readiness. Empower me by your Spirit to do the work you’ve called me to, for the glory of Christ and the good of His Body. Amen.