It’s Time to Dream Again
Pastor Ryan
7 minute read
I want to let you in on a secret about being a pastor.
I’m called not just to teach you but to train you.
I firmly believe that one of the most crucial callings for church leaders, backed up by Scripture, is to empower people to carry out the work of the Kingdom. Leaders are called to do more than just shepherding; pastoring is about equipping, nurturing, and fostering a true knowledge of what ministry is.
Empower People to Do the Work of Ministry
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, provides clear roles of church leaders:
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-13, NIV)
This is known as the “5-Fold Ministry.” Church leaders are appointed by Christ to equip the members for the work of ministry. This work goes beyond the physical walls of the church; it extends into our communities, workplaces, and homes. Empowering individuals to engage actively in this work is essential.
The Pastor Who Empowered Me
Years ago, I had the privilege of being a part of Covenant Church, where I had the opportunity to serve Mike Hayes. In him, I saw the empowerment that comes from true leadership. He didn’t see himself solely as a spiritual authority figure but as an equipper, helping others discover and use their gifts and callings. Numerous churches have been planted out of Covenant, mainly because Mike knows how to train and equip leaders.
One significant day, while I was contemplating the idea of planting a church, I approached Pastor Mike for guidance. Instead of offering a simple directive, he did something truly remarkable – he asked me questions. He inquired about my vision, strengths, and passions. He recognized potential in me and firmly believed that God could use me to make a difference. Pastor Mike didn’t just empower me with words; he empowered me with trust, support, and an unshakable belief in my ability to fulfill God’s calling.
Practical Steps for Empowerment
Empowering individuals within your congregation requires a deliberate approach that extends beyond encouragement. Here are some practical steps:
1. Identify and nurture their gifts: Take the time to discover the strengths and talents of your church members. Encourage them to explore and develop these gifts through involvement in various ministries.
2. Cultivate a culture of discipleship: Foster an environment of growth and transformation through discipleship. Provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for spiritual development within your church community.
3. Delegate responsibilities: Trust your congregation with different roles and responsibilities. Allow them to take ownership of projects and ministries. This not only lightens your load but also facilitates their spiritual growth.
4. Celebrate their successes: Recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of your church members. Their victories are a testament to the empowerment you’ve provided, and they serve as inspiration for others to step into their God-given roles.
I really want you to know this – empowering people to carry out the work of the Kingdom is not just a task for church leaders; it’s a divine calling. That’s why this weekend we did 7 on 7, where people from within our church were given the opportunity to use their gifts to bring the truth of God’s word. I encourage each of you to watch it here.