Ephesians 4:11 states that God” gave to the church Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, Pastors and Teachers.” Also are deacons and Elders. You have heard or possibility taught that there are not Apostles after the original 13, also prophets are suspect as well. I contend all these exist today and should be recognized as such. Most SBC teach that the Pastor is 3 in 1, i.e. Pastor, Bishop, Elder. I also contend that all these positions serve specific functions and you can not lump them under one or two leaders.
What does this have to do with swimming pools and beaches and churches?
Consider a membership pool for a moment….
You have an enclosure for the pool, a lifeguard, a maintaince staff, swimmers, etc.
The job of the lifeguard is to keep and eye on the swimmers and watch for dangers and maintain order. (Pastor)
The job of the maintaince staff is to make sure trash is up, things run orderly etc. (Deacons)
The job of Lifeguard instructors is to train the lifeguards to do the best job that they can (Apostles)
One job around the pool or beach is to beware of dangers lurking around. Sharks, Broken pipes, blind spots, currents, etc. Warning the lifeguard and swimmers is very important. (Prophets)
Every pool / beach needs someone to extol the virtues of their place. Someone must convince others to come to the Life and Life abundantly [water] at their place (Evangelist)
There are those that will be good swimmers that can go to the deep and will help those that can not swim a well get better and make good decision about how far they can go (Elders)
There are those that can give lessons on being a better swimmer (Teachers)
Some pools / beaches will double up some of these jobs, but all are specific and unique.
You see, our churches have Pastors that should be watching the members for dangers. What happens when he gets distracted by other things? The members are in danger.
All Pastors should be taught by Apostles to keep them up to date.
Deacons aught to be about making sure the members have a safe environment out of the water.
Prophets should be diligent to warn of dangers in the water and around the church.
Evangelist should invite others to come to Jesus and be with the church.
Elders should train those less mature to become more mature. Help them along.
Teachers should give good lessons of instruction.
Let us give everyone a chance to do what God has put in the church to be used by the church.
