Serving at First Christian Church

First Christian Church believes in the “priesthood of all believers” (I Peter 2:5). In understandable language, that means that every member is called to be a minister in some way. Of course, not a paid minister, rather a volunteer minister. Without the membership’s involvement, the church could not function. Our nurseries run, our Bible fellowships are taught, various ministries have leadership all because our members use their talents to serve God.

The Bible has much to say in this area (Romans 12, I Corinthians 12, I Peter 4:8 - 11, Ephesians 4:11 - 16). The idea is God adds us to the church for the purpose of glorifying Him through our time, talents, and treasure. Our life is a gift from Him to be used to build up His church and advance the kingdom forward. There are seven major categories of spiritual gifts. Every person is endowed with at least one at birth. Before we come to Christ, we use them to build our own individual empires; now as Christians we do everything for God’s glory and His pleasure. The seven categories are as follows: 

Evangelism - Some people are naturally gifted to share good news with others and enjoy doing so. They are often called “salespersons.” We are all commanded to share the good news of Christ, but there are usually ten percent in each congregation who have this gift in particular and love bringing others to salvation. Working in our calling for visitation ministry would be a good option for this member.

Teaching - Some people are naturally gifted as teachers. This doesn’t mean they automatically feel comfortable in front of people. It means they have the desire to develop in this area. We offer many opportunities for members to develop this gift in all classes and ages from nursery to adult. 

Pastoring - Some men are naturally gifted to shepherd God’s people. They are caring individuals who enjoy helping teach and mentor younger Christians into maturity. We offer eldership and leadership training to allow our members to develop this gift. 

Mercy - Some people naturally enjoy giving comfort and care to others in distress or need. It brings a tremendous amount of joy to serve. Opportunities abound to show mercy on a regular basis. Benevolence ministries are a good place for this member.

Service - Some people naturally enjoy rendering practical help in both physical or spiritual matters. It brings joy and fulfillment to help someone else. Any ministry that works behind the scenes, or jobs that people enjoy doing alone are also included in this category.

Giving- Some people have the natural ability to make money. God has given these persons to bless His church financially and to teach others to be good stewards of their money. These individuals would also work well handling the money affairs of the congregation. 

Administration - Some people are good organizers. They love details and love to see things fit together. Those people have been given the gift of administration. They work well leading a particular ministry team or special task force to help complete projects in the church.