If you’ve ever taken the time to read the back of our Sunday morning bulletin—just below the list of our current shepherding elder team—you’ve read this:

Ministers of the Gospel: The Entire Congregation

Where do we get this idea, and what do we mean by it? It doesn’t mean God’s church is leaderless. In Ephesians 4:12–16, Paul says that God does appoint some to lead, but that their duty is to “equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” And it’s only when “each part is working properly” that the whole body grows and builds itself up in love. Gospel ministry is not carried out by a few trained professionals; each member of Christ’s body contributes to the work of discipleship.

This week, Randy Gruendyke will preach on our fifth ministry value, The Priesthood of All Believers, and Kenny Clark will be leading our sung worship. Would you pray for each as they prepare? Some Scripture passages for meditation and reflection include Exodus 19:5–6 and 1 Peter 2:4–10. Ephesians 4:11–16 would also make a great prayer prompt for us to pray for our Grace family:

Lord, equip each and every one of us to do the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, so that as each part is working properly, the whole body will grow and build itself up in love.

See you Sunday, Grace. Come hungry!

 

Song Link of the Week

Oh, What High and Holy Privilege by Matt Boswell, Keith & Kristyn Getty, and Matt Papa

Oh, what high and holy privilege
This communion that we share
With the Father, Son, and Spirit
And His people everywhere
As we go with God’s great blessing
In the keeping of His grace
Go in peace to love and service
Till we join again in praise

 

Preaching Schedule

SEP 14: God’s Glory
SEP 21: Christ-Centered Worship
SEP 28: The Great Commission
OCT 5: Biblical Preaching
OCT 12: Priesthood of Believers & Elder Leadership
OCT 19: Elder Leadership & Spirit-Led
OCT 26: Diverse Unity & Simplicity
NOV 2: Children & Youth