Christ's Pattern for His Church

Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church established the pattern for His Church to grow and mature. That plan is revealed in the Word of God and remains unchanged by time, people, or culture.

God intends for it to be the regular practice of Christians to be using the spiritual giftedness that is given to each one individually. There are variations and degrees of giftedness given to each one. They are to be used to glorify God and serve others. Each individual has the responsibility to make the best, and most, use of the giftedness given them as God supplies the means.

In this section the apostle Paul gave a sampling of the gifts that focus on the speaking gifts. All pastors are teachers but not all teachers are pastors. The pastor has the responsibility to also give oversight and feed the "flock" of believers in the local church. Feeding the “flock” by the teaching of the Word of God is foundational to the growth, edification, and ministry of the local church. Only by following the pattern established by Christ will God's intention for individuals [as well as the corporate church] to be maturing into the likeness of its Head, Jesus Christ, be accomplished.