Thursday, May 15, 2025
New Testament Reading Plan: Acts 19
In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul gives us a powerful picture of the church that goes beyond Sunday services or individual faith journeys. He reminds us that the church is the body of Christ. It is a living, breathing community made up of many different people, each with a unique role to play. This body doesn’t function fully unless all its parts are active and engaged. Christ gave leaders (Ephesians 4:11) to equip all believers for ministry, but the goal isn’t just spiritual growth for a few. It’s for everyone to be built up and empowered to do God’s work (Ephesians 4:12).
This passage points to the Ecclesiological Domain, which is about how the church works and why it matters. It highlights that the church isn’t just a place we go; it’s who we are together in Christ. It emphasizes the truth that we belong to one another, and each person’s contribution is vital to the whole.
It’s tempting to believe that ministry is reserved for pastors, church staff, or those who feel a special calling into full-time service. But Paul makes it clear:
Ephesians 4:16b
As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow…
That means your unique gifts are absolutely essential to the health and mission of the church. It might be encouraging someone who’s struggling, organizing details behind the scenes, teaching the truth to an audience, creating something beautiful, or offering a listening ear. When you align your love for others and your understanding of God’s love for you with the truth of who Jesus says you are, you step confidently into your special work.
The beauty of the church is in its diversity. No one is expected to do everything, but everyone is called to do something. When each of us leans into our God-given role, the church becomes more than a place we go. It becomes a living, growing expression of Christ’s love, truth, and grace to the world.
Jesus invites you to participate, not as a spectator, but as a vital contributor to his redemptive mission. When you step in and serve, not only do others grow stronger, but so do you. Let your love for Jesus and others moves you into action.
Let Jesus’ truth guide you to love more fully and serve more boldly. The church needs what only you can offer.
Questions:
What gifts or talents has God given you that could build up the church?
How have you experienced spiritual growth through serving alongside others?
What’s one step you can take this week to do your “special work” within the body of Christ?
Next Steps:
Take one simple step this week to explore how you fit into the body of Christ. Start by reading Ephesians 4:11–16 on your own and ask God to show you what your “special work” might be. Then, consider attending GrowthTrack at your campus. It is a practical way to discover your gifts and how God designed you to make a difference. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s grow together.
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for inviting me to be part of your church—your body. Help me see the unique gifts you’ve placed in me and give me the courage to use them to serve others. I don’t want to sit on the sidelines. I want to grow, give, and make a difference. Teach me how to align my love for others with your truth and lead me into the role you’ve designed just for me. I trust that as I take a step, you’ll guide me. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
John 8:31-32
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
This post was written by Monique Myers, a Perrysburg attendee and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.