The practical section begins with Ephesians 4:7 "But unto every one of us is given

grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ". We are at once faced with a very

personal responsibility to serve the Lord in the sphere in which He has placed us, using

the ability and talent He has given us, and doing that task for which He has equipped us.

He would not expect anyone to do that for which he (or she) is not fitted. We are

members of the Church which is His Body, and just as our own bodies have parts with

different functions, so in His body there are many members with different tasks. One has

the gift of ministry, another can play the organ, another is suited to be treasurer, another

has the ability to write letters which are helpful to others, and in the conduct of work in

which we are all engaged.

It would be useless for one with no knowledge of music to attempt to play the organ,

or for one who is hopeless with figures to offer his services as treasurer. Similarly, one

who is appointed minister or teacher must have the gift and necessary knowledge. He

must be "apt to teach". So it is vital that we ask the Lord to show us how He desires we

should serve Him. There are ways of serving the Lord that do not bring us into the

limelight, but such work may be essential and important. So much vital work is done

quietly and without outward show. Prayer support is like a power house, and those who

hold up the work in prayer and intercession support the witness in the privacy of their

own homes.

It is noticeable that once we have been shown our particular function, we have the

grace given to us so that we may serve the Lord acceptably. But it is also according to

"the measure of the gift of Christ". We are like vessels of different shapes and sizes, so

we should ask the Lord to fill our vessel, whether large or small and whatever its shape.

We may have a large, or a small measure of the gift of Christ. If we have a large measure,

then like the man in the parable who had five talents (Matt. 25:15) we have a greater

responsibility, and the Lord will expect more than from one who has a smaller measure.

Before we leave this subject, let us observe the three references to "measure":

We have concentrated so far on the gifts made to each one of us, but we must notice

that in verse 11 we read, "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some,

evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers". Paul was appointed to be "a preacher, and

an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles". He was a gift from God. He was specially

chosen and fitted for the important office which he carried out so faithfully. We have

already commented on the foundation ministry undertaken by the apostle Paul, and as he

completed that work there is no need in these days for apostles. We do need however

evangelists, pastors and teachers. Indeed, what a great need there is today for sound

teachers! In many parts of the world (and even in our own country) there is much work

awaiting the evangelist. For every sphere of service to God gives men, his gift to us, so

that His work may continue. Each of these servants asks God to fill his measure.