In the letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul describes the five-fold ministry, which refers to the five roles or offices God has called Christians to fulfill. These roles are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Each of these roles was important for the early church and is essential for the body of Christ today to function correctly. Together, these offices equip God’s people to do His work and build up the church so it will become mature in Christ.

 

Put It into Practice: Send a note to someone with one of these five spiritual gifts, affirming their calling and encouraging them to persevere in their vital service to the church.  

 

Day 1  Ephesians 4:1-16

Reflect: Why is “one body and one Spirit” so central to Paul’s message? Why does he highlight the specific roles, and what is their function in the church? How would you describe spiritual maturity?    

Apply: What does it mean to live a life worthy of the calling you received? What does it look like to “speak the truth in love” in everyday relationships? How does that impact growing more Christ-like? 

Pray: Jesus, help me use my gifts faithfully for Your glory. Shape my character to reflect Your goodness, transforming me more into Your likeness, eager to serve rather than to be served.

 

Day 2  Galatians 2:1-10 

Reflect: What is the main point of Paul’s message? What does this text say about the diversity of spiritual gifts and callings in the Church today? About humility, trust, and obedience? 

Apply: What can we learn from this text about maintaining unity in our church? What may happen if those in leadership positions are not unified in mission? Why is it important to seek affirmation?  

Pray: Lord, affirm us in our calling and help us to walk in unity with fellow believers. Remove any division and discord so that we may work together in harmony to spread the good news.

 

Day 3  Acts 20:13-31

Reflect: What spiritual gifts do you see reflected in Paul’s ministry as he describes it to the elders? What gifts are necessary for effective spiritual oversight and why? Who do you know with those gifts?   

Apply: How have you benefited from the gifts of church leadership regarding protection? How are you currently using your gifts to serve and strengthen the church? Who can you encourage to do so? 

Pray: Father, protect our church leaders, giving them faith and courage to guide Your people. Stir each of us to build up one another to be a church of strength, devoted to Your mission.

 

 Day 4  1 Timothy 4:11-16

Reflect: Why is it important for spiritual leaders to teach and command truth in the church? How do qualities like speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity demonstrate leadership beyond words?  

Apply: How have you seen church leaders prioritize teaching and Scripture as part of their ministry? When have you seen leadership potential in someone and encouraged or called it out?

Pray: Jesus, may our church pastors, teachers, and shepherds reflect Your heart of humility, integrity and love. Strengthen them to faithfully teach Your Scriptures and lead us into more understanding of Your Word and deeper intimacy with You.

 

Day 5  Acts 21:8-26

Reflect: How should leaders respond to difficult prophetic messages? What leadership gifts and qualities is Paul exercising in building bridges between Jewish and Gentile believers?  

Apply: How have the Bible readings this week helped you better understand and appreciate the five offices that help equip the church for spiritual growth? Are there any changes you need to make?   

Pray: We long for spiritual growth and unity of Your Church for reconciliation rather than division. Strengthen us to be rooted in Your truth, unwavering in faith, with courage to follow Your calling.