April 30, 2014

"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" Ephesians 4:10-11

As popular as the passing game is in football, especially the NFL, I think there is nothing more beautiful than a running play that breaks for a long touchdown. In real time I will notice the running back shake a tackle, spin into the open and out run the defenders to the end zone for a score.

When they show it again on the replay, I see something different. Rather than just a stellar run by a speedy back, I see an offensive guard who knocks a defensive lineman down and an offensive tackle pushing another defensive lineman to the side opening a hole for the running back. I also see a fullback engaging a linebacker to make more space and a wide-receiver blocking a defensive back down field. 

Looking at the replay in slow motion reveals the touchdown was the result of a team executing their individual assignments and not just one ball carrier making a great play. 

No individual player can beat the opposing team by his self. One person going against eleven others is not a winning formula for football. It takes a team that is committed to teamwork in order to have a chance to win.

Winning teams are the product of players who consistently execute their assignments on every play. Teams that don't execute their assignments on a consistent basis will get beaten - often!

Jesus designed the Church in a similar pattern. God has gifted each member in each local church to be able to successfully execute a ministry assignment.

You have a spiritual gift as do I! Your gift is as important as mine. When we each use our gifts within the ministry of a local church under the authority of that local church, that church (team) becomes more effective in ministering the Gospel. Spiritual gifts are given by God and are empowered by the Holy Spirit.

No single person in a local church can do every thing that is required to be done. But he can do one thing! As each one does what he is gifted to do, under the power of the Holy Spirit, the "team" begins to execute more effectively! 

A lot can happen when each person on the "team" does the little things he is good at doing rather than trying to "do it all".

This year at FredWes, we raised $8,500 to build a well in an African village! We did not do it by one person giving it all, but instead we had many people doing the best they could!

Do you want to have a winning team?

Have you discovered your position on the team?

If so, play your position the best you can!