The Father's Will

Prominent Individuals in the Old Testament It was God's desire to create the cosmos and everything in it. God also desired a creation in their likeness so they created man and gave him the ability to make decisions. Man is not the exact representation of God as man sinned yielding to Satan's temptation whereas God is sinless. There are many references in the scriptures that describe God, the Father; God, the Son and God, the Spirit. Mortal man has many of these attributes but not to the same degree as God.

GOD	MAN
God is love. 1 John 4:8	Man can love and hate
God is life. John 1:4	Man lives but will die
God is truth. John 14:6	Man can know some truth
God is just (holy, righteous). 2 Thessalonians 1:6	Man tends to put self ahead of what is just and right
God is mercy. Luke 6:36	Man seeks revenge
God is peace. 2 John 3 and John 14:7	Man wars and strives against each other
God is faithful. 1 Corinthians 10:13	Man struggles to be faithful but breaks covenants
God is without sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21	Man yielded to temptation and sinned,

God put him in Eden, told him to work and take care of it and told him not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. When Adam and Eve were tempted they chose to believe a lie over truth, put self over God. They became unfaithful severing their perfect relationship with God. Mankind continued his rebellious ways becoming so wicked that God was grieved and regretted He had ever made man. But since God is love, He desires for man to return to that relationship in which he was created. Following the flood, God began to make man aware of sin and its consequence through the Law which culminated in the ultimate sacrifice for sin and a pathway to redemption by doing His will. But just what is the Will of God?.

Response of Prominent Old Testament Individuals

Adam
Now Adam and Eve had a choice. They could obey and do as God said and be pleasing to Him, or chose not to obey and satisfy their own desires by ignoring God's instructions. As we all know they chose self rather than God. They sinned. God was displeased. They suffered the consequences of their act of disobedience receiving the promise of God, which was death. (Genesis 1-3) Paul tells us that all men have sinned and that the wages of sin is death. (Romans 3:23)

Noah
This was not the case with Noah for he was blameless and walked with God while others had corrupted their ways and had become "exceedingly wicked." God was filled with pain and was grieved that he had ever created man. (Genesis 6) Peter tells us that Noah was a herald or a preacher of righteousness. (2 Peter 2:5) He and his sons OBEYED GOD, built the ark and by their actions of obedience and preaching were a light reflecting God's justice to the wicked of their land.

Following the flood God instructed Noah and his sons to "be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth." (Genesis 9:1) Not many years later, 101 years according to Word Bible Timeline, while Noah was still living, the people again rebelled by disobeying God stating "let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves and not be scattered." (Genesis 11)

Abraham
God told Abraham to leave his father and his native country and that through him God would bless all the peoples of the Earth. (Genesis 12) The Hebrew writer tells us that by faith (belief put into action) Abraham OBEYED AND WENT. At various times and places Abraham built altars and worshiped God. However, he was not perfect as he lived deceitfully while in Egypt. God inflicted serious diseases upon Pharaoh and his household which Pharaoh properly attributed to Abraham's God. But Abraham was still accepted by God.

Moses
Hundreds of years pass. Moses, a descendent of Abraham, chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. (Hebrews 11:25-26) Forty years later God called Moses to deliver His people out of bondage. Now Moses OBEYED God and delivered them from Egyptian slavery even as they groaned and rebelled.

Elijah
Elijah, God's prophet to Israel, was one of two people not to die. In fact, He along with Moses talked with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration a short time prior to Jesus' crucifixion. (Mark 9:1-4) Obviously Elijah DID GOD'S WILL.

Ezekiel
Many time God said to Ezekiel "Son of Man" speak to my people, go tell them, prophecy to them, and prophecy against them. "Then the vision I had seen went up from me, and I told (prophesied) the exiles everything the Lord had shown me." (Ezekiel 11:24b-25) At this point in time were they still waiting to know what the Will of God is?

Jesus, God in the Flesh
But at just the right time or perfect situation, God came to earth in the fleshly body of Jesus of Nazareth to become the perfect sacrifice to atone for man's sins and in doing so provided the way for deliverance from the bondage of sin; i.e., salvation and reconciliation with God.

This was emphasized in Matthew when Jesus stated "come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me." (Matthew 11:28-29) For them to come and "learn of Me" Jesus had to do His Fathers will (John 6:38) which was doing the work that God sent Him to do. (John 9:4)

Work Jesus Came To Do
"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. … But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:6, 8) because he wanted to seek and save the lost. (Luke 19:10)

"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

Therefore, God's will was to provide a way for His creation to be reconciled unto Him. "God . . . wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men. (1 Timothy 2:4-6 also Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:25 and Hebrews 9:15) John put it this way "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes [pisteuo - commits to] in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

"For the grace of God [Jesus the Christ] that brings salvation has appeared to all men." (Titus 2:9) But "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 7:21) So "Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord' and do not do what I say?" (Luke 6:46) One who hears His Words, the way unto salvation, and fails to accept and obey them is like a man who built a house on the ground [earth (sand or dirt) as opposed to stone] without a foundation, consequently, like the house, his destruction will be complete. (Luke 6:49)

"My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working." (John 5:17) Jesus did His Father's work as he lived a sinless life pleasing God in order to offer His life and body as the only and perfect sacrifice to God to atone [take the place] for man's sins. He taught that all who believe on [trust in and commit to] Him would have eternal life with the Father. (John 3:15, 16) He also said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really knew [have an intimate relationship with] me, you would know my Father as well." (John 14:6-7) For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. (John 5:11) For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man. (John 5:26-27)

Jesus stated in John 17:4 "I have brought glory to You on earth by completing the work You gave me to do."

God, as Jesus of Nazareth, came in the flesh to the Earth, did His Father's will established a new covenant (Hebrews 9:15) and created new spiritual beings (2 Corinthians 5:17) within the New Covenant and then added them to those he previously put into His Kingdom prior to Pentecost. (Luke 22:29) This was the body of believers He promised to establish; i.e.; those called out of the darkness of sin (Matthew 16:18) and into His Light (Righteous and Just). (1 Peter 2:9)

Therefore the will of the Father was for Jesus, God in the flesh, to provide the perfect sacrifice for man's sins and communicate His message of salvation by words, signs and wonders so that everyone would have the opportunity to accept salvation by trusting in Jesus' words and life, by believing [faith in action based upon knowledge] and by committing to Him. Those who responded to His call became the called out, His disciples, His Body. They are said to be IN CHRIST. (Ephesians 1:13-14)

Belief - not a onetime event:

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship." (Acts 2:42)

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:1-2)

All who accept God's word delivered by the apostles and disciples, remain faithful in Christ and continue to be united as one will set an example so the world may believe that God sent Jesus to do His will. (John 17:10)

Paul told the Romans "Everyone who calls [epikaleoo - to invoke Jehovah] on the name of the Lord, [through the actions of trust, obedience and commitment,] will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news [gospel]!" (Romans 10:13-15) Earlier in the Romans 1:16 Paul stated "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes."

Instructions To Disciples About The Work To Be Done

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor." (John 4:34-38)

Jesus' Instructions To Disciples About The Work To Be Done

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor." (John 4:34-38) What is this sowing and reaping those In Christ are to do?

Make Disciples
"Jesus told His disciples shortly before He returned to the Father that 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'" (Matthew 28:18-20)

"Go into all the world and preach [herald] the good news [gospel] to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:15-16)

The apostle Paul stated "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes," those who act upon their faith. (Romans 1:16)

Were the apostles and disciples the only ones who had the task of preaching/teaching the Gospel? No.

On that day [stoning of Stephen] a great persecution broke out against those belonging to the way at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. … Those who had been scattered preached (euaggelizo- evangelize) [probably should have been translated evangelized as keérux is generally translated as herald or preach i.e. Paul a preacher (keérux) to the Gentiles 1 Timothy 2:7)] the word wherever they went. (Acts 8:1-5)

Build Up One Another
Encourage and Exhort - Beware, brethren, [Christians] lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily [not when assembled together i.e. (Sunday and Wednesday)], while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." (Hebrews 3:12-13) "Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT)

Comfort and Edify - To the Christians in Thessalonica Paul "sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions." … "For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing." (1 Thessalonians 3:2-3 … 5:9-11)

Perform Works of Service
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)

Jesus had someone come to Him asking - "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" (Matthew 19:16 and Luke 18:18) He perhaps was of the opinion that he could earn eternal life by doing a certain amount of good works. The purpose of doing good works is not to obtain some reward, such as eternal life. To be good works they must come from an attitude of love because he is my Christian brother, my family or my neighbor. Jesus' reply to the questioner lets us know that works done because of command or duty will not earn eternal life.

This is expounded on by Paul in Galatians 6:7-10. "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."

Paul instructed Timothy similarly in regard to taking care of one's family "Take care of any widow who has no one else to care for her. But if she has children or grandchildren, their first responsibility is to show godliness at home and repay their parents by taking care of them. This is something that pleases God. … But those who won't care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers. (1 Timothy 5:3-8)

Infants are helpless. They must grow and mature to become productive adults. Likewise the diligent studying and abounding in good works is the food and exercise needed for Christians to mature and become faithful servants.

An examination of the New Testament provides great insight into th doing of works and good works.

Good Works (Quoted from the New Living Bible)
Matthew 5:16 -In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Matthew 11:2-6 - John the Baptist, who was in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?" Jesus told them, "Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen- the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor. And tell him, 'God blesses those who do not turn away because of me.'"

Matthew 26:7-13 - While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it over his head. The disciples were indignant when they saw this. "What a waste of money," they said. "It could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor." But Jesus, aware of this, replied, "Why criticize this woman for doing such a good thing to me? You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me. She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed."

John 10:32 - Jesus said, "At my Father's direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?"

Acts 9:36-37 - There was a believer in Joppa named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor.

Acts 13:2-3 - One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.

Acts 26:20-21 - I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God-and prove they have changed by the good things they do.

Romans 13:3-4 - For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you.

1 Corinthians 15:58 - So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

2 Corinthians 9:7-9 - For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.

Ephesians 2:10 - For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

Colossians 1:10 - Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.

Colossians 3:17 - Whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 - Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work.

1 Timothy 2:9-10 - And I want women to be modest in their appearance. They should wear decent and appropriate clothing and not draw attention to themselves by the way they fix their hair or by wearing gold or pearls or expensive clothes. For women who claim to be devoted to God should make themselves attractive by the good things they do.

1 Timothy 3:1-2 - If someone aspires to be an elder, he desires an honorable position.

1 Timothy 5:9-10 - A widow who is put on the list for support must be a woman who is at least sixty years old and was faithful to her husband. She must be well respected by everyone because of the good she has done. Has she brought up her children well? Has she been kind to strangers and served other believers humbly? Has she helped those who are in trouble? Has she always been ready to do good?

1 Timothy 6:17-19 - Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Titus 2:7 - You yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind.

Titus 2:14 - He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.

Titus 3:1-2 - Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.

Titus 3:8 - Here is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.

Titus 3:14 - Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive.

Hebrews 10:24 - Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.

Revelation 14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write this down: Blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their hard work; for their good deeds follow them!"

Conclusion
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, "Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well"-but then you don't give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn't enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. (James 2:14-17)

The Functioning Body Doing The Father's Will
Paul compared the functioning of Christ Body to the most familiar object known to mankind, the human body.

To the Ephesians Paul states that Christ gave functions to His people "… apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers. (Ephesians 4:11 NASB)

He wrote to the Corinthians "Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church [that is within the body of Christ] first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, then healers, helpers, administrators, speakers in various kinds of tongues." (1 Corinthians 12:27-28) Here he did not couple pastors with teachers as he did in his letter to the Ephesians possibly because pastors were considered Christians who were inclined to teach and skilful in teaching.

Note: Because of the different wording of 1 Corinthians 12:27-28 and Ephesians 4:11 some teachers are elders whereas others think teaching is a separate function. I am of the opinion that teachers are not necessarily elders but that elders must teach.

Problems arise, needs appear, emergencies occur: someone gets sick, another loses his job, families have squabbles, parents have problems with children, people die and families must be consoled. When these needs appear, they must be met, and met right now! Who is going to meet these needs? Who will serve? Who are the servants of God today?

To serve means "to supply the needs." Where there are no needs, there are no services to perform. In a living and growing organism its needs are dynamic, constantly changing. All Christians are called to serve, but not everyone must perform the same function or service since needs vary requiring differing work, activity or function.

By examining these functions or gifts one can get a better understanding about the functioning of Christ's Body.

Apostles (apostolos, apostolou) - one sent forth with orders.

In regard to the death of Judas Iscariot, Peter quoted Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8 stating "'May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it' and 'May another take his place of leadership.' Therefore, it is necessary to choose one of the men who has been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection." (Acts 1:20b-22) Two men were qualified but God chose Matthias.

But Paul said he was an apostle, but not one of the twelve. How could he qualify for he originally fought against Christ? God called him separately as His apostle to the Gentiles. He was qualified by God observe:

"I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know-God knows. And I know that this man-whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows- was caught up to paradise. He heard inexpressible things, things that man is not permitted to tell." (2 Corinthians 12:1-4) [Note: there are three heavens mentioned in scripture:

a) aerial - atmospheric heavens;
b) siderial - the region of the sun, moon and stars and
c) third heaven or heaven of heavens - God's abode.

"I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles." (Galatians 2:2)

"Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord? Even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 9:1-2)

The apostles had special powers to perform miracles, things impossible for humankind to do. They did not take credit for these miracles instead they gave God the glory proving their testimony about Jesus was true. They were even able to give some of their special powers to others. Nowhere do we read of those receiving this power from the apostles giving that power to others nor do we read anywhere that anyone other than the apostles giving powers to others. Therefore, the giving of these special powers ceased when the apostles died.

Work [functions] of the Apostles

Be a witness of Christ's resurrection. (Acts 1:21-22)

Preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick." (Luke 9:1-3)

Preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." (1 Corinthians 1:23-24)

Teach the Gospel to all (Galatians 2:2)

The apostle John summarized it stating "That which was from the beginning, [Jesus, the Christ] which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched - this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us." (1 John 1:1-2)

Prophets (profeetees, profeetou) - a spokesman for God; one through whom God speaks and not giving his own opinion [not necessarily of future events].

God used men and women willing to be used, having a willing attitude and desiring to do whatever pleases God to be His prophets.

There were many prophets in the Old Testament. They delivered God's message only known by divine revelation to God's people. (2 Peter 1:20) Occasionally they foretold future events. Jesus said there was too much for Him to reveal to His apostles and disciples while He was with them as they were not able to comprehend it until after His resurrection. Prophets continued the work given to them until the divine revelation was completed.

Agabus, predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (Acts 11:28)

At Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen. Perhaps these men or one of them delivered the Spirit's message to separate out Paul and Barnabus for the work for which He had called them. (Acts 13:1-3)

Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the brothers. (Acts 15:32-33)

Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. (1 Corinthians 14:29-30)

The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:32-33)

But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. (2 Peter 2:1)

Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1)

Evangelists (euangelistees) - a bringer of good news.
Preachers (keerux; kerux) - ambassador, herald or proclaimer

Evangelists, good news and gospel come from the same Greek root word ?euaggelizo. An evangelist is a bringer of good news. A preacher is a herald or a proclaimer for one greater. Many people use preacher and evangelist interchangeably; however a preacher may not always herald good news exclusively. The word for preacher is found only four times in the New Testament twice referring to Paul as an apostle and preacher (1 Timothy 2:7 and 2 Timothy 1:11) and once to Noah as a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5). However the word preaching is found often.

Paul told Timothy to "preach [herald] the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction" (2 Timothy 4:2) and to "do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry." (2 Timothy 4:5) Therefore evangelists and preachers proclaim or herald the resurrection of Christ, the Gospel, encourage Christians in their Bible study and daily life, rebuke those who distort the truth and correct those who live contrary to the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles.

I [Paul] planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow." (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)

So Apollos taught the Christian the way of the Lord, perhaps like Priscilla and Aquila who "explained to him the way of God more adequately." (Acts 18:26)

Of course, evangelists and preachers can also teach Christians.

Pastors (poiménas poimeen, poimenos) - shepherd, one who sees to the need of sheep.
Overseers (eepiskopeés) - superintendent, one seeing that things to be done by others are done correctly
Elders (presbuteros, presbutera, presbuteron) one advanced in age
And Teachers [To be discussed separately]

These three words, shepherd, superintendant or older man, are also used to describe pastor, overseer and elder. A pastor or shepherd provides nourishment by checking the food source to determine its purity for those for whom he is responsible. An overseer or superintendant equips, trains and prepares Christians to perform tasks or actions needed by the body to remain healthy and viable in order to do the Fathers will. An elder provides an example of a godly life full of trust, faith and obedience while encouraging all to remain faithful and live godly lives while doing the work needed for growth and maturity. Paul identifies their spiritual qualifications in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.

"Now the overseer (bishop) must be above reproach (held in high regard, good reputation, blameless), the husband of but one wife [only one wife], temperate, self-controlled, respectable [orderly, good behavior) hospitable, able to teach (apt), not given to drunkenness (not drink excessively, no brawler), not violent (no striker or combative) but gentle (considerate of others), not quarrelsome (not contentious), not a lover of money (not greedy). He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect (children should respectively obey him). (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited (think too highly of self) and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap."

The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife (most translations do not include "but"), a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless-not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can en-courage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it." [To encourage by sound doctrine and refute requires teaching skills] (Titus 1:5-9)

Since various meanings have been ascribed to several but not all of the qualifications, a Christian must determine the meaning that best applies based upon his understanding of all of Christ's and the apostles' teachings in light of their environment: for instance.

1. Husband of {but} one wife

a. Only one wife during his lifetime
b. Only one wife at a time [not a polygamist]
c. Wife must be living
d. Wife not required to be a Christian [unless 1 Timothy 3:11"their" applies to the wives of shepherds.]
e. Neither husband not wife could have been divorced
f. Committed and faithful to wife
2. Children who are believers

a. He must have more than one child
b. All children must be Christians
c. All children currently residing in his house must be believers
d. Children must honor and respect him and not be wild or rebellious regardless of age or residence.

Note: In the Roman world, sons were to respect their fathers, who had legal authority to rule their sons as long as they lived. IVP
3. Hospitable
a. Make home available to all strangers and guest
b. Have home open for meals and entertaining
c. Meet the needs of strangers and visitors
d. See that needs of friends, neighbors, visitors or strangers are met.

Note: Christian travelers, like Jewish ones, normally carried letters of recommendation attesting that they could be trusted. IVP

4. Able to Teaching

a. He is capable of teaching whether he teaches or not
b. Must be a public teacher
c. Is in the habit of teaching or tendency to teach
d. One well versed in Scripture and effective in communicating while instructing, encouraging, admonishing or refuting.

The 1st century Roman culture promoted a promiscuous lifestyle with little regard for the sanctity of life. During that period both pagans and Jews were attempting to get Christians to deny their faith and return to their former way of life.

My opinion of these four pastor/overseer/elder qualifications is as follows:

1. He must have been married, not a polygamist and be faithful

2. His child or children must honor and respect him regardless of their religious belief and they must be of such an age that they could be wild or rebellious without but is not. Their character traits reflect respect and trustworthiness toward parents.

3. He must provide for, not ignore, needs of others whether friends, neighbors, visitors or strangers.

4. A shepherd provides good nourishing food for Christians to grow, mature and become productive. He does this to those for whom he is responsible by to instructing, encouraging and admonishing. To others he refutes and shows the error of the incorrect beliefs and/or opinions of those who oppose the teachings of Christ and apostles. Therefore he must not only have good knowledge of their teachings, he must have the tendency to, be accustomed to and skillful at teaching in private and/or public settings.

All these qualifications listed relate to relationships of man to God and man to fellowman without regard to socioeconomic situation whether entrepreneur, executive, laborer or slave. Obviously these qualifications are given due to the functions elders, shepherds or overseers are to perform within the assembled body or interactions between individuals and families, not just when assembled together.

With persecution by Romans and Jews it is doubtful that Christians owned buildings in which to assemble. Thus there were no buildings to maintain, mortgage commitments, utilities, janitorial services, etc. Shepherds, overseers or elders decisions would have pertained to maintaining unity and faithfulness. They would encourage good works, correct non-Christ like living, refute error and false teachers and teach God's message of reconciliation and redemption.

Paul provides a glimpse of an assembly in Corinth. There appears to have been a lot of freedom; that is, without any set form, liturgy or ritual, as there were some individuals giving a revelation, another singing their own song, and others speaking in a language needing that needed to be interpreted. This could have been utter chaos. (1 Corinthians 14:26-39) The assembly needed to be conducted in some orderly manner for everyone to be edified and God Praised. From Paul's instruction to Timothy apparently the elders performed this function as well as evangelizing. "The elders who direct the affairs of the church (?proistemi - preside over) are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching." (1 Timothy 5:17)

James gives us another function when he wrote "Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (James 5:13-16)

He [elders] must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. For there are many rebellious people, mere talkers and deceivers, especially those [Christians] of the circumcision group. They must be silenced, because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach-and that for the sake of dishonest gain." (Titus 1:9-11)

Peter used all three terms in describing their work."To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over [not ruling] those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away." (1 Peter 5:1-4)

Paul told the Ephesian elders essentially the same thing when he said "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard!" (Acts 20:28-31a)

Peter probably recalled Jesus' words regarding the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. "I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. (John 10:1-5) Do sheep follow the shepherd just because they recognize his voice? NO! His constant contact and actions toward them have generated trust - he talks to them and calls them by name. The lack of trust is why they flee from those they consider strangers.

This intimate and trusting relationship must exist between Christian sheep and Christian shepherds. His manner of life and them knowing that he is willing to die for them to have an eternal life with the Father causes them to listen to his words of encouragement and admonition. He sets the example of love by providing spiritual nourishment while exposing false teaching by those attempting to creep in and devour. Therefore it should be much easier to understand why elders must be self controlled, without reproach, earned the respect of his children, not be a drunkard, or violent, or arrogant, or contentious, or desiring wealth while able to communicate God's word effectively to Christians and non-Christians alike. Therefore, having this lifestyle elders will not:

1. Be drivers, rulers or overlords
2. Punish, threat, intimidate or ridicule
3. Establish rules and regulations
4. Prohibit or discouraging good works
5. Treat the affluent with more respect than the poor
6. Exercise personal authority or make arbitrary decision

Teacher (didaskalos, didaskalou) one who instructs
Other related words are dialegomai - to converse, discourse with one, argue, discuss i.e. Paul spoke (dialegomai) in Troas Acts 20:7 and didaskoo- a didactic discourses i.e. Jesus' sermon on the Mount where He sat down and began to teach (didaskoo ) (Matthew 5:1)

Teacher (didaskalos, didaskalou)occurs 59 times in the New Testament rendered as master in the Gospels 46 times, once as doctor in Luke, and ten times in the epistles, once as master in James. Biblical teachers who do the work and will of God prepare themselves not only in Christ's and the Apostles' teachings but also in living a daily life reflecting God's nature which all Christians should do. Often one's teaching is observed more than their verbal presentation; such as, parents teaching their children, or just teaching a neighbor, friend, fellow worker, employer or relative. Christians should always be looking for opportunities to teach in all its many forms.

From the four following scriptures one should be able to conclude that a teacher should know their subject, speak the truth (sound doctrine), grow in knowledge of truth, retain the things to be taught, and be humble remembering no man is perfect. All can falter. Therefore, one should constantly evaluate one's self against God's standard.

"Some [Christians or Christian teachers] have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. (1 Timothy 1:6-7)

"For the time will come when [Christian] men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. (2 Timothy 4:3)

"In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again." (Hebrews 5:12)

"Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check." (James 3:1-2)

Therefore, teachers are to be able to:

1. Express clearly the Gospel message.
2. Teach Biblical truths to Christians and non-Christians.
3. Focus on teaching righteousness to all.
4. Train others to recognize teachings not from God.
5. Instruct others in the knowledge of the doctrine of Christ and the apostles while training them in methods of teaching others.

The individual Christian should not think they must be an orator or a professional teacher/speaker or to be perfect in all methods. But all Christians are to be involved is some method of teaching.

All Servants

As part of a living spiritual organism every Christian is a functioning worker otherwise he is considered to be either sick or dying.

"Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, functions [charisma, charismatos, charizomai a gift of grace; a favor which one receives without any merit of his own] according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully." (Romans 12:4-8)

Application
Hebrews 5:12 strongly implies that all Christians are to teach, no doubt at various levels determined by ability and knowledge, but not necessarily at the same level as those with the gift of teaching. Why not re-read the section on teachers while looking for the teaching method in which you need to be involved, better trained or equipped. Is the one bringing another to be taught of less importance than the one teaching? NO! We are all servants having different functions or tasks to do in unity and harmony with other is the body is to remain healthy and grow. The teaching function has previously been discussed, therefore it is not necessary to discuss again. As mentioned earlier Paul stated in Ephesians 2:10 that we were created In Christ to do good works.

Summary of Functions and Work To Be Done

The Body of Christ, Christians everywhere, is a spiritual entity, a living organism with many parts. It is compared to the human body with its many parts all functioning in harmony, with each part performing its unique function and none useless or idle. It is never referred to as a physical facility or organization but a living organism i.e.; a body or bride.

Christ, as the head, directs it through His Word and the Holy Spirit in all our work. Christians continually are seeking His guidance through prayer, study and spiritual discernment and encouragement of others.

Functions assigned

Apostles and Prophets
We do not have apostles today as there is no one alive today who was with Jesus when He lived upon the earth as man. The special gift of prophesying was given by the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Day to those assembled in Jerusalem or by the Apostles following Pentecost to assist in confirming that they were witnesses of Jesus' death (crucifixion), burial, resurrection (victory over death) and ascension (returning home) providing the way for mankind to be forgiven of sins and be reconciled to God. NOW God speaks through Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 1:1-12)

Evangelists and Preachers
These heralds of the Good News, which is the Gospel, should focus on evangelizing i.e., teaching the reconciliation and redemption message to the non-Christian and equipping and mentoring all Christians, new and mature, to become evangelists, teachers and workers in a living organism servants of God.

Today when Christians assemble preaching appears to:

a. Be a lecture or sermon - less than 10% of message retained.
b. Give little if any opportunity to determine if message is in context
c. Be presented to audience of infants through aged seniors.
d. Not encourage preparation for the lesson by those assembled.
e. Provide little or no follow-up to see if message understood.
f. Eliminate the opportunity for discussing to resolve questions.
g. Ignore any planning for the application of the lessons.

Elders, Overseers and Pastors
This group of men should know the level of knowledge, faith, maturity, capabilities and weaknesses of all Christians within their assembly and to devote their time to maturing the faith of those they are shepherding i.e.; caring for their spiritual health. They are to oversee the evangelizing, edifying and doing of good works by Christians through planning, appointing (selecting), coordinating and evaluating while giving God the glory for His love, mercy and peace. The shepherds, overseers, preside over the assembled body, tend to its spiritual needs individually and collectively and instruct and equip all members (along with the evangelists and teachers) so that each one is prepared for the work of service, ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-12)

All Christians
Every Christian has a function that God has assigned to them whether they perform that function or not. None are forbidden to serve. It doesn't matter if they are single or married, with or without children, teens, new Christians, spiritually mature, spiritually immature or even Christians with character defects, we all have some. All are called to serve. No member of the body is excluded from serving. If you or someone you know is not serving God, start now! If you do not know what or how to begin seek advice or guidance from another Christian, teacher, evangelist, preacher or elder.

All Christians are to be involved in the teaching function. There are many ways and methods of teaching such as;

1. Individual evangelistic Bible studies
2. Group evangelistic Bible studies
3. Ministering to teens,
4. Mentoring young adults including newly weds
5. Training parents
6. Maturing adults
7. Being examples of Godly living
8. Writing, distributing or evaluating lessons and/or questions

The "deacons", a group of servants of character and experience already proven, assist the elders in their spiritual work of taking care of the spiritual needs of the Christians within their assembly, especially those needs that are urgent. Deacons are not "junior elders" although their work would be similar to some work the elders perform and the experience could be good training for these men to one day assume the eldership. Refer to the Work of Deacons for additional study.

Conclusion
Every Christian is made to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father. (Revelation 1:6) Peter states we are a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices. (1 Peter 2:4) Spiritual sacrifices in addition to praise and prayers come from within, i.e.; offerings or sacrifices from one's heart to please ones redeemer, not animal sacrifices for sin as in the Old Covenant. It is how one lives and acts, not because "The Master" commanded it; but because of one's love of God - just to please God. God will judge His New Covenant people individually by their works because of love for Him, things done in the flesh.

Warning

The words spoken by Ezekiel long ago to God's children under the Old Covenant apply to His Children, both individuals and leaders, under the New Covenant today. People were condemned for not performing their job.

"The word of the LORD came to me: "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not:

1. take care of the flock.
2. strengthened the weak
3. healed the sick
4. bound up the injured
5. brought back the strays
6. searched for the lost.

You have ruled them harshly and brutally. So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals. My sheep wandered over all the mountains and on every high hill. They were scattered over the whole earth, and no one searched or looked for them." (Ezekiel 34:1-6)

"'Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, because my flock lacks a shepherd and so has been plundered and has become food for all the wild animals, and because my shepherds did not search for my flock but cared for themselves rather than for my flock, therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I am against the shepherds and will hold them accountable for my flock. I will remove them from tending the flock so that the shepherds can no longer feed themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them." (Ezekiel 34:7-10)

Summary of The Father's Will
God desires that no one perish but that all be redeemed and reconciled unto Him. Jesus left heaven coming to earth in the form of man and live among His created living beings in order that He could make redemption and reconciliation possible by offering himself as the only and perfect sacrifice to remove man's sins. Following His sacrificial offering and resurrection He poured out His Spirit upon all men. All who believe, repent by turning from the worldly life of sin to the world of righteousness, obey making Him the Lord of their life and call upon Him for forgiveness through the act of baptism become new spiritual beings and are added into His Body with the apostles and other disciples. All within His Body are assigned functions so the living Body would continue to grow and mature in all wisdom and knowledge.

God's Will for all mankind:

None perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

God's Will for Those In Christ

All who accept His call will remain faithful

The faithful will be united as one so the World may believe

Perform works of love rather than to obey a command:

• Feed on God's Word
• Teach the Gospel, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
• Be examples by living Godly and faithful lives
• Encourage others to remain faithful and grow in faith
• Contribute to needs of the Body
• Be gentle - while equipping, training and encouraging
• Display mercy, not being judgmental and promote justice
• Be united with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
• Assist others by performing good works to all men especially fellow Christians because of love, rather than a command or duty

God's Warning God used Ezekiel to warn the Israelites yet these warnings are just as applicable to Christians regardless of time or location.

"Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. When I say to a wicked man, 'You will surely die,' and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. But if you do warn the wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness or from his evil ways, he will die for his sin; but you will have saved yourself. (3:17-19)

My people come … to listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice. With their mouths they express devotion, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain. Indeed, to them you are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice. (33:31-32)

"Our offenses and sins weigh us down, and we are wasting away because of them. How then can we live?" 'Say to them, 'As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?' (33:10-11)

You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. (2:7)

Nature and/or Actions by those following God's Will
Ephesians 5:8-11

1. Children of light
a. Goodness
b. Righteousness
c. Truth

This pleases the Lord.

Galatians 5:22-26

1. Love
2. Joyous
3. Peaceful
4. Patience
5. Kind
6. Good
7. Faithful
8. Gentle
9. Self-controlled
10. Not conceited
11. Not envying

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its desires and live by the Spirit pleasing to God.

Nature and/or Actions that are contrary to the Will of God
Galatians 5:19-21

1. Sexual immorality
2. Impurity and debauchery
3. Idolatry
4. Witchcraft
5. Hatred
6. Discord
7. Jealousy
8. Fits of rage
9. Selfish ambition
10. Dissensions
11. Factions
12. Envy
13. Drunkenness
14. Orgies

Those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
2 Peter 2:12-17

1. Those who speak evil of the things they do not understand
2. Those with eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls
3. Those having a heart trained in covetous practices
4. Those having forsaken the right way and gone astray.

The blackness of darkness is reserved for them.

Revelation 21:8; 1 Timothy 1:9-11

1. The cowardly
2. The untrustworthy
3. The vile
4. The murderers
5. The sexually immoral - both heterosexual and homosexual
6. Those involved with the occult and with drugs
7. Idol-worshippers
8. All liars
9. Perjurers
10. Slave dealers, man-stealers, kidnappers
11. Anyone who acts contrary to the sound teaching

Their destiny is burning with fire and sulfur, the second death.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++= Functions assigned
Apostles and Prophets
We do not have apostles today as there is no one alive today who was with Jesus when He lived upon the earth as man. The special gift of prophesying was given by the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Day to those assembled in Jerusalem or by the Apostles following Pentecost to assist in confirming their words about Jesus' death (crucifixion), burial, resurrection (victory over death) and ascension (returning home) providing the way for mankind to be forgiven of sins and reconciled to God. NOW God speaks through Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 1:1-12)

Evangelists and Preachers
These heralds of the Good News, Gospel, should focus of evangelizing i.e., teaching the reconciliation and redemption message to the non-Christian and equipping and mentoring all Christians, new and mature, to become evangelists, teachers and workers in a living organism.

Today preaching appears to be:

a. A presentation or lecture.
b. Presented to audience of infants through aged seniors.
c. No preparation by those assembled.
d. No follow-up to see if message understood.
e. No opportunity for discussing or resolving questions.
f. No planning or coordinating for the application of the lessons.

Elders, Overseers and Pastors
This group of men should know the level of knowledge, faith and maturity, capabilities and weaknesses of all Christians within their assembly and devote their time to maturing their faith by caring for their spiritual health. They are to oversee the evangelizing, edifying and doing of good works of the church through planning, appointing (selecting), coordinating and evaluating while giving God the glory for His love, mercy and peace.

Teachers
All Christians are to be involved in the teaching function. But, there are many ways and methods of teaching such as;

1. Individual evangelistic Bible studies
2. Group evangelistic Bible studies
3. Teaching teens,
4. Young adults including newly weds
5. Parents
6. Mature adults
7. Examples of Godly living

All Christians
Every Christian is made to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father. (Revelation 1:6) Peter states we are a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices. (1 Peter 2:4) Spiritual sacrifices in addition to praise and prayers come from within, offerings or sacrifices from one's heart not animal sacrifices for sin as in the Old Covenant - how one lives and acts, works that benefit to man, not by some command but to please God. God will judge His New Covenant people individually by their works because of love for Him, things done in the flesh. (1 Peter 1:17)

No one ought to think that since they are not designated as a special servant, a deacon, they cannot or do not have to serve God in some capacity. In fact, the opposite is true. Every Christian has a function that God has assigned to them whether they perform that function or not. None are forbidden to serve. It doesn't matter if they are single or married, with or without children, teens, new Christians, spiritually mature, spiritually immature or even Christians with character defects, we all have some. All are called to serve. No member of the body is excluded from serving. If you or someone you know is not serving God. Start now! If you do not know what or how to do to begin seek advice or guidance from another Christian, teacher, evangelist, preacher or elder.