When we speak about ministry in the Church, it is easy to begin with ourselves—our abilities, our responsibilities, our programs, our plans, and sometimes even our frustrations. But Paul begins somewhere entirely different. He begins with Christ: “And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,” (Eph. 4:11 ESV). Ministry is first of all a gift from Jesus to His Church. Christ loves His Bride so much that He does not leave her alone. He sends His Word. He gives His servants. He provides pastors and teachers so that His people may hear His voice, receive His gifts, and be strengthened in the faith.

And notice why these gifts are given: “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,” (Eph. 4:12 ESV). The Church is not a religious organization in which a few professionals do all the work while everyone else watches. Through His Word and Sacraments, Christ continually strengthens His baptized people for their various vocations of service. The pastor preaches, teaches, absolves, baptizes, administers Christ’s Supper, and tends the flock entrusted to him. Other church workers serve according to the particular responsibilities entrusted to them. And together the whole Body is built up in Christ.

That goal matters because Paul warns that Christians must not remain “children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine,” (Eph. 4:14a ESV). Every generation of the Church faces new winds of doctrine, new religious fads, and new voices promising something better than the old Gospel. The answer is not novelty. The answer is maturity in Christ. Church workers therefore have a sacred responsibility to speak “the truth in love.” We dare not sacrifice truth in the name of love, nor may we use truth as an excuse to be loveless. In Christ, truth and love belong together.

And through it all, Christ remains the Head. The Church belongs to Him. The ministry belongs to Him. The people belong to Him. Even the growth belongs to Him. Our task is faithfulness. Christ will build His Church.

So, when church work becomes exhausting, remember whose work it ultimately is. You are not carrying Christ’s Church. Christ is carrying His Church—and He has graciously given you a place in His service.

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, Head of Your Church, thank You for giving servants to proclaim Your Word and care for Your people. Keep us faithful to Your truth, humble in our service, and loving toward those entrusted to our care. Guard Your Church from every false teaching and cause us to grow into maturity in You. When we grow weary, remind us that the Church is Yours and that You alone give the growth. Strengthen us to serve faithfully until that day when we see You face to face. In Jesus’ name. Amen.