Some Thoughts on “Equipping the Saints”
The older I get, the more time I have found myself spending in Ephesians 4. Not only have the first several verses of that chapter become a favorite part of the Bible for me, but I continue to see how their practical application would solve so many issues congregations face.
In verse 11 of that chapter, Paul writes that there are different leadership roles in the congregation. Following up on that, he writes the purpose of these roles: “To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” If you continue reading (verses 13-16), you will see the result, and it is nothing short of breathtaking!
I think many congregations are missing it when it comes to “equipping the saints.” Church leaders, here are some random, but hopefully helpful, thoughts on that phrase.
It Does Not Merely Mean Having a “Program of Work.” A congregation can have ministries and org charts, and still not have equipped anyone to actually do the work!
It Takes Time. Members need to know what is expected, so it takes time to come up with expectations. They need the necessary training, tools, and opportunities. These take time. Coming up with an idea for a ministry is one thing. Equipping people to do it is quite another.
It Doesn’t Absolve You from Working. Too many leaders see their role as equipping the saints, and by that, they mean, they get to plan something and let everyone else do it. Read this carefully: one of the best ways to equip members for ministry is to let them see you get your hands dirty, too! Lead by word, but also lead by example.
Deacons Play a Major Role. While deacons are not listed in Ephesians 4, their role is inferred by simple deduction of God’s plan for the organization of the church. Elders and preachers can help train and equip deacons, who can, in turn, equip far more people to get a task of ministry done.
It Reinforces What “Ministry” Really Means. The term “ministry” (diakonia in Greek) simply means “service.” When people are equipped to really serve, they feel like they can serve and help anyone. It reinforces what that idea should mean to the strength of the church and the winning of the lost.
It Will Reduce Disunity. We often say that people just need something to do and they will stop complaining. That may be true, but if we do not show them (1) what to do and (2) how to do it, we are actually adding fuel to the fires of disunity! (Remember, Ephesians 4:3 had spoken of the “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”? This is one way to help with that!)
Each and every congregation, no matter how large or small, can follow this command. Yes, it takes time and effort, but it will result in a more flourishing and more unified group of people who trust their leaders even more. Let’s equip the saints!
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
