Grace In Service
Grace-Filled Service
Unity in the body of Christ is not just about keeping the peace; it is a wartime strategy for maturity. Paul calls us to walk worthy of our calling, moving from a theological foundation to active participation.
1. Grace for Function, Not Status
Paul writes that grace was given "to each one of us." This kills selfish theology. Grace is assigned for function, not status. It is given for the service of the whole, not the elevation of the individual.
2. The Victory of the King
Before gifts were distributed, a battle was won. Paul quotes Psalm 68 to show that Christ first descended to the lower parts of the earth, conquering death and captivity, before ascending to fill all things.
Because He conquered, He has the authority to assign roles. The spiritual gifts we see in the church are spoils of war, distributed by the Victor to His army.
3. The Five-Fold Ministry
Christ gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These are not titles for an elite few, but functions to equip the saints.
- Apostles: Break new ground and provide vision/alignment.
- Prophets: Bring clarity and direction when the body is stalled.
- Evangelists: Stir the body toward outward mission and the lost.
- Pastors: Provide care, protection, and healing.
- Teachers: Offer training, understanding, and stability in truth.
4. The Dovetail Joint
True unity isn't a "butt joint"—two boards glued together that fall apart under pressure. It is a dovetail joint.
In a dovetail joint, pieces interlock. Each part gives up a little of itself to fit perfectly with the other. This connection relies on mutual dependence. We are knit together by what "every joint supplies." If one part holds back, the structure weakens.
