God gifts people so they can participate in His care for others. Spiritual gifts exist to make believers useful in God’s purposes and to help the body of Christ flourish. Scripture consistently directs attention toward faithfulness expressed through service. “God’s gifts are not about status. They are about service.” Gifting is measured by how well it builds others up, not by how visible or impressive it appears.
Paul’s teaching in Ephesians 4 presents leadership gifts as functions that move toward deeper responsibility for people. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are given for one shared purpose: equipping the saints for the work of ministry and building up the body of Christ. When Scripture names the pastor, it uses the word shepherd, emphasizing care rather than authority. “The highest expression of leadership in the church is not control. It is care.” Leadership is defined by responsibility, not rank.
Jesus reveals the heart of shepherding in John 10 by describing His own relationship with the sheep. The good shepherd knows the sheep, remains present in danger, and lays down his life for them. Shepherding requires proximity, faithfulness, and willingness to suffer inconvenience for the sake of others. Leadership that reflects Christ is marked by personal investment and sacrificial love.
The pastoral anointing extends beyond vocational ministry into everyday life. Anyone filled with the Spirit is invited to share in God’s care for people through patience, presence, and discernment. Shepherding happens by walking slowly with others, listening before speaking, and helping people recognize God’s voice. The question is not whether someone holds a title, but whether they are faithfully caring for the people God has placed in their life.
As you reflect on this message this week, consider the following:
- God’s gifts are given to build up people through care and faithfulness. Consider how you currently measure spiritual gifting in your own life. What would change if care, presence, and responsibility became the primary evidence of God working through you?
- The highest expression of leadership in the church is shepherding, not position or visibility. Reflect on the people God has placed within your reach right now. In what ways are you walking with them patiently rather than trying to manage, fix, or rush them?
- The pastoral anointing is not limited to a job but shared with all who are filled with the Spirit. Think about the everyday spaces where God invites you to shepherd others. How can you listen more carefully, speak more gently, and trust the Holy Spirit to form people as you walk alongside them?