Do Not Neglect the Gift You Have: The Blessings and Challenges of Equipping Ministry

Abstract

“Why don’t more people volunteer?” “Why is getting congregational involvement in ministry like pulling teeth at times?” “Why does my church have 20% of the people doing 80% of the work?” These questions and others like them have been asked by many congregations as they seek to keep their ministries alive. However, “surviving” in ministry is a lot different than “thriving” in ministry. Something needs to change. This thesis presents the following truth: While faithfulness to the gospel and truth of the Word dare not change, the way we deliver the Word from our God to people must change, as well as the way we engage members in service.

This thesis also presents a solution: Equipping Ministry. Equipping Ministry is not just one more program to add to the mix, but a core value that must be championed by the congregation. Equipping Ministry changes the existing church culture to one that recognizes and rejoices in the Biblical imperatives of equip people for works of service. Equipping Ministry helps people discover their spiritual gifts and strengths, and prepare, connect, and equip them for ministry. Equipping Ministry helps get the right people in the right place at the right time for the right reason. Equipping Ministry helps ministries not only survive, but thrive.