Sep. 28, 2025

In this sermon titled 'Equipped for a Purpose,' Pastor Chad emphasizes that spiritual maturity is not just about what we know, but what we contribute to the body of Christ. Using Ephesians 4:11-16 as his foundation, he explains that God gave spiritual leaders (apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers) not to do all the ministry work themselves, but to equip believers for service. The pastor's role is to prepare and equip the congregation for ministry.

Key Verses: Ephesians 4:11-16

Discussion Questions

• Read Ephesians 4:11-12. According to this passage, what roles are given to equip the saints? How do these roles impact the effectiveness of a church?
• Consider 2 Timothy 3:16-17. How does Scripture equip us for every good work, and who in your life has helped equip you through teaching or mentoring?
• Reflect on Hebrews 13:17. How can respecting and following spiritual leaders foster a healthy church environment?
• Ephesians 4:14 talks about no longer being 'children tossed to and fro by the waves.' What are some 'winds of doctrine' or cultural messages that Christians might be swayed by today?
• Study Ephesians 4:15-16. How does speaking the truth in love contribute to the growth and health of the church?
• Reflect on Colossians 1:28-29. What does it mean for each part of the body to work properly, and how can you determine where you might best contribute?
• What are some barriers that may prevent members from actively engaging in the life of the church, and how can these be overcome?
• The sermon stated that 'growth isn't measured by how much you know, but by how much you sow your faith.' What are some ways you can 'sow' your faith in your daily life?
• Pastor Chad asked if we are 'waiting to be served or learning to serve others.' How would you honestly answer this question for yourself right now?
 
  
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Application & Reflection

This week, take time to prayerfully consider what your specific role might be in building up the body of Christ. Identify at least one concrete way you can move from being a spectator to a participant in ministry. This might be joining a connect group, volunteering to serve in an existing ministry, or even starting something new that aligns with your gifts and passions. Then take one practical step toward fulfilling that role before we meet again.

• How do you define spiritual maturity, and how does serving within the church play a role in it?
• What specific steps can you take this week to contribute more actively to your church community?
• How can understanding your identity in Christ motivate you to serve and engage with others?
• As a church community, how can we better promote unity and cooperation among members for more effective ministry?
• In what ways can we as a group support each other’s spiritual growth and encourage each other in our roles within the church?

Key Takeaways

• God has placed spiritual leaders in the church not to do all the ministry work, but to equip believers for service.
• Spiritual maturity is measured not by what we know, but by how we contribute to building up the body of Christ.
• When believers remain uninvolved in ministry, they often remain spiritually immature.
• The church grows stronger when every member does their part according to their gifts and calling.
• Growth comes not from what we know, but from what we sow in our hearts, families, church, and community.