Five-fold Ministry: Five Super-heroes United for a Common Cause And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry Eph. 4:11

5 Leadership 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." (In saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) 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, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, 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, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:7-16)

The Backstory  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." (In saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) Eph. 4:7-10  The chariots of God are twice ten thousand, thousands upon thousands; the Lord is among them; Sinai is now in the sanctuary. You ascended on high, leading a host of captives in your train and receiving gifts among men, even among the rebellious, that the LORD God may dwell there. Psalms 68:17-18

The Characters  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, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ... Eph. 4:11-13

The Apostle  Apostle literally means to be “sent.” These are the ones who advance the Kingdom.  History: An apostle was an official “emissary” sent into new territory to plan and to build and to appoint the local rulers of that place.  Strengths: Apostles are strategic thinkers with an entrepreneurial spirit. They are multi-talented individuals who can function in each of the gifts as needed. They are visionaries who see new possibilities and are always working on a new project while they have several others in the pipeline.  Weaknesses: Apostles are great at starting things, but not always so good at finishing them. They are dependent on others with their respective gifts to carry out their vision. An Apostle who is not able to try new things will feel confined and may become discouraged.

The Prophet  A prophet is “one who speaks for God.”  History: In the old Testament, Prophets were trusted advisors. They were judges in early times and influential figures in the times of the kings. Because of their consecration to God, they were often the only ones left to speak a word of correction when everyone else had turned from God.  Strengths: Prophets have the ability to see what other people do not see. They have a remarkable intuitive sense that shows itself in impressions, sometimes accompanied by word of knowledge, visions, or dreams. They stand strongly for truth and justice when others may be inclined to compromise.  Weaknesses: Since prophets usually see things different from everyone else they may not always feel like they fit in. Because of their remarkable sensitivity they may struggle with their thoughts and emotions more than other people. Prophets are refined through times of testing.

The Evangelist  An evangelist is a bearer of “good news.” They are the communicators of the gospel message.  History: In Bible times, an evangelist was an announcer and a messenger. News from the battle front was communicated by a runner who would run throughout the towns and villages announcing the “good news” of victory. In the early church evangelists travelled throughout towns and villages telling the story of Jesus Christ or communicating messages from the Apostles.  Strengths: Evangelists are eager to share the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. They have a knack for connecting with hard-to- reach people and bringing them to a point of decision for Christ. This gift may be combined with words of knowledge, miracles or healing.  Weaknesses: Evangelists are good at getting people saved, but often struggle to know what to do with them after that. Evangelists should be accompanied by pastors and teachers.

The Shepherd (Pastor)  Shepherds are those who have a heart to care for and to nurture people.  History: In the Old Testament, both religious and community leaders were figuratively called “shepherds” of the people. “Shepherd” is only used as a title in this passage. A close comparison might be made to the role of elders or to a bishop whose job it was to oversee churches and to impart the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands.  Strengths: Shepherds demonstrate the loving heart of God. They have the ability to encourage or correct as needed and to do so in love. They provide spiritual covering and impartation.  Weaknesses: Pastors can become overburdened with the needs and concerns of their people. They can be trapped into patterns of ministering to others and not replenishing themselves spiritually.

The Teacher  Teachers are those who interpret and explain the Word of God.  History: In Greek teacher (didaskalos) is essentially the same as the Jewish title “Rabbi” (John 20:16). Teachers were those who recited the scriptures and explained them for those who had the time to listen.  Strengths: Teachers are entrusted with the knowledge and revelation of God. They have good minds and the ability to comprehend complex information. Good teachers inspire us with their words and give us a framework for understanding God, life and our role in the story.  Weaknesses: Teachers can get bogged down with too much intellectual knowledge and not exercising faith and love. Or they may become proud and too rigid in their theories and interpretations. Jesus constantly challenged the teachers of his day to practice what they preach.

The Cause …so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Eph. 4:14-16

The Cause 1. Every believer has God-given gifts. The gifts are not for your benefit, but for others. 2. Recognize that your gifts have inherent strengths and weaknesses. So do other’s. We need each other’s help and protection. 3. Don’t trust your own thinking and power but keep your focus on Jesus Christ! It’s all about Him!