The Daily Fountain Devotional Wednesday, June 22, 2022
The Daily Fountain Devotional Wednesday, June 22, 2022
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
TOPIC: GRACE GIVEN TO EACH ONE OF US
TEXT: Ephesians 4:7-11
7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
The Daily Fountain Devotional Wednesday, June 22, 2022
INTRODUCTION TEXT
In order to foster the unity and growth of the church, grace has been given to every believer. This grace is a special ability that enables every member to work for the strengthening of the church. When Christ ascended into heaven after His resurrection, He released these gifts and apportioned them by the Holy Spirit to his children (v.8). In His wisdom, He called people into different offices to serve as:
Apostles: These people are sent to proclaim the gospel and also serve as church leaders
Prophets: Chosen to communicate God's message to the church and sometimes unveil future events
Evangelists: This group proclaims the gospel and harvests ripe
souls for God's kingdom
Pastors: They are gifted to teach the word of God correctly, etc.
We must note that these gifts are not independent but inter-related; for example, when an evangelist wins souls, a pastor is needed to teach the word of God to disciple the souls. When an Apostle starts new churches, he can also disciple them as a pastor and even function as a prophet to communicate the mind of God as the Spirit wills. Today's reading challenges us to use our God-given grace to build the church. We are saved to serve. Have you identified the grace given to you? How are you using it?
Prayer: Dear Lord, may I never use this grace in vain! Amen.