The Callings

"He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, shepherds and teachers" (Ephesians 4:11). These five "gifts unto men" come from the ascended and glorified Christ, and Paul often groups them together: apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor-teacher and teacher. Alongside them is the unique calling of the deacon, or servant (1 Timothy 3:8-13). This section looks at these callings according to God's revelation. "The Prophet" examines the ministry office of the prophet. "The Deacon" shows how the deacon or minister supports the Assembly through service wherever it is needed. Each calling is a gift to the whole body, given so that God's people can be built up and equipped for the work of ministry. This category belongs to Ministry & Service, which also covers the gifts of service in Romans 12 and the manifestations of the Spirit. If you are seeking to understand your own place in serving Yahweh, these studies are a good place to begin.