“However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. That is why the Scriptures say, “When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people.” Notice that it says “he ascended.” This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world. And the same one who descended is the one who ascended higher than all the heavens, so that he might fill the entire universe with himself. Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.”

Ephesians 4:7-12 NLT

What stands out about these gifts?

1.They are happy gifts. The resurrection was a joyous and awe-inspiring occasion.(Jesus resurrected)

2.No one had to earn these gifts; they are given freely.

3.Everyone has at least one of these gifts.

4.These gifts are for the church. You will find that every thriving church has these gifts operating in their leadership.

What is the purpose of the resurrection gifts?

1. To equip others (v12)

When it comes to these gifts, I strive to have this sort of mindset: It’s not about me, but about developing other people to build up the church. Therefore, I need to guard against becoming possessive about my area of ministry. After all, ministry is about serving others. So at the very least, we can hope to see those we are training to reach the same level as us:

“Students are not greater than their teacher. But the student who is fully trained will become like the teacher.”

Luke 6:40 NLT

At the very best, we can see those walking in faith in Jesus with us perform miracles like Jesus did. It’s even promised that with faith, we can perform greater miracles than Jesus did while He was on earth. 

“I tell you this timeless truth: The person who follows me in faith, believing in me, will do the same mighty miracles that I do—even greater miracles than these because I go to be with my Father!”

John 14:12 TPT

2. To restore oneself to a better condition

In the original Greek, the word “Kartatiso” is used. Kartatiso means “to restore to a better condition.” Like the fixing of a fishing net, the weakest places become the strongest after being mended. My greatest weakness can become my greatest strengths. The part that was mended is now stronger than the other parts.

So I can’t say I’m forever broken. No, on the contrary, I have been mended for continued special purpose and use.

Here are some more words to describe Kartatiso: developing people, training, increasing, equipping, preparing, filling the gaps—the things that are missing!

So, in my daily walk/relationship with my loving heavenly daddy, I speak with Him (prayer), and He speaks to me and I make a special note (journaling), and as I forgive others, I’m being adjusted for special use.

My take away:

I have a resurrection gift – Discover it!

Pray into it!

And build others by praying for people and giving opportunities for them to grow, without demanding growth or leadership.

Who can I train and help grow in the next few months?