Of all the New Testament lists of God-given gifts, this one (“apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers”) may be the one that the most Christians would recognize. Problem is, far fewer Christians see themselves in the list. But Ephesians did not say God gives only these gifts. Rather, God meant these gifts to equip all of God’s people for the divine work of serving and building up the body of Christ.

• Why do you think Resurrection has a certain number of paid staff people? (Hint: the purpose of paid staff is NOT to do all the spiritual (or physical) work for the church members.) As scholar N. T. Wright put it, “The main point of certain people having special roles is so that every single Christian, and the church as a whole, may be equipped for their work of service.” In what ways have people with the gifts mentioned in today’s reading strengthened and deepened your spiritual walk?
• What do you think spiritual maturity looks like? Ten years of regular worship attendance? Participation in five in-depth Bible studies? Tithing? Having three mission trips under your belt? Well, maybe. In verse 13, Paul described it this way: “to be fully grown, measured by the standard of the fullness of Christ.” Identify two areas of life where you are happy with your growth toward spiritual maturity, and one or two in which you seriously want God to help you grow during the rest of 2014.