Be the Church 3: “Be Equipped”
Ephesians 4:11-16
the 20-80 problem:
Apostles = start and establish new kingdom works
Prophets = bring a message directly from God
Evangelists = gifted at presenting the Gospel in a way that wins converts
Shepherds = care for the church once it is established
Teachers = those effectively communicating spiritual principles
1. “Be equipped” is being made ready to serve.
effective saints vs. sideline saints –
Application to My Life:
Are you ready to be part of a transforming community that will help you find where you fit and what you have to offer?
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build up = framing & fitting a building for usefulness vs. pile of rubble (v 12)
each joint in the human body serves a purpose (v 16)
2. “Be equipped” is being built up to grow.
different plants require different nurture, just like different spiritual gifts.
Application to My Life:
Do you feel “in tune” with God, or do you need a spiritual community to support you in using your spiritual gifts?
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“unity ” “mature” “fullness” = deeper intimacy with God that transforms
3. “Be equipped” is becoming mature in spirit.
child tossed around by whims vs. mature & stable follower of Jesus
Application to My Life:
In what work of service do you need equipping?
LifeGroupDiscussion/PersonalMeditationQuestions:
Icebreaker: What are your deepest passions and strengths from a young age?
1. Why do you think so many churches struggle with 20% of the people doing 80% of the work (and 80% of the giving)?
2. Read Ephesians 4:11-12a. What is the purpose of gifted leaders in the church? Is that how you have seen the church functioning?
3. Read Ephesians 4:12b. How do you see yourself building up the body of Christ?
4. Read Ephesians 4:16. Why does the body of Christ need each part to participate? What happens if you don’t do your special calling?
5. Read Ephesians 4:13. How do you define maturity in your spiritual life?
6. Read Ephesians 4:14-15. How do the differences look in real life between being a child tossed around by life vs. spiritual maturity and stability?
7. How can your gifts and calling be equipped and developed?