What if the roles of teachers, prophets, and evangelists in the church are more than just titles? Join us as we unravel the spiritual gifts behind these roles, delving into their true purposes and debunking common misconceptions. We'll explore how these gifts aim to foster unity and maturity within the body of Christ, referencing powerful scriptures like Ephesians 4 and 1 Corinthians 12.

Throughout our discussion, we shine a spotlight on the often underappreciated role of teachers in ministry. Teachers help simplify complex spiritual concepts, driving profound growth and understanding within their communities. Reflecting on Jesus' unparalleled teaching through parables, we emphasize how His methods made deep spiritual truths accessible to everyone, illustrating the critical function of teaching in faith development.

Balancing evangelism with discipleship is another key theme we tackle, using biblical references to highlight the importance of each role in holistic spiritual growth. We also address the contemporary challenges of recognizing and using prophetic gifts effectively, stressing the necessity of humility, discernment, and alignment with the fruits of the Spirit. This episode promises to equip you with a deeper understanding of these spiritual gifts and how they can be gracefully integrated into the life of the church.

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What does it mean to truly embody the gifts of the five-fold ministry? Discover the profound insights behind Paul's teachings in Ephesians 4 as we kick off Season Two of the "We Are Lions" podcast. We begin with a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated listeners and share an exciting new way for you to partner with us. This episode sets the stage for our two-part series on the five-fold ministry—apostle, prophet, pastor, teacher, and evangelist—and their roles in building a robust church community.

Ever wondered how Apostle Paul balanced self-recognition and external validation in his ministry? We dive deep into the unique calling of apostles, exploring both historical and modern contexts. You'll hear thought-provoking discussions on the apostolic gifting, its multifaceted nature, and the critical role of raising and discipling future leaders. With insights from Pastor Jeremy Graham and the influential work of Damon Thompson, we unravel the complexities of this vital ministry function and its impact on the church's mission.

Misconceptions about pastoral leadership abound in modern Western churches, and we aim to set the record straight. Through personal stories and wisdom from "The Complete Wineskin" by Harold Eberle, we'll redefine what it means to be a true pastor. Emphasizing genuine care, humility, and theological training, this episode challenges the conventional view of pastoral roles, advocating for a balanced and community-focused approach. Join us for an enriching conversation that not only highlights the importance of aligning with your spiritual gifts but also fosters a unified and strong church community.

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Today's Episode: Why Theology Matters

When Pastor Cole Burks took the helm at Resting Place Church, he never imagined the profound transformation his community—and his own faith—would undergo. This episode, we're joined by the insightful pastor from Knoxville, who guides us through the intertwining paths of personal belief and collective identity. Get ready to witness a narrative of hope and change, as we uncover the story behind a church's evolution from its dwindling numbers to a congregation reborn with a deeper, more introspective mission.

The theological ground beneath our feet isn't as solid as some might have you believe—it shifts, grows, and challenges us to reexamine our inherited doctrines. Throughout our discussion, we lace humor with earnest introspection, considering how well-worn our own theological "baseball gloves" are. Pastor Burks and The Lion Crew navigate the tricky waters of doctrine and belief, emphasizing how true faith isn't about adhering to rigid dogma, but instead, about fostering a living, breathing relationship with the divine that is as concerned with justice as it is with spirituality.

In the grand tapestry of Christianity, what threads hold us together? This episode draws on Pastor Burks' stories and our shared experiences to answer that question, examining how our views of God shape every human interaction we have. We talk about the transformative power of incarnational theology—living out the Gospel with hands and feet, not just with our words. Join us as we explore what it means to have a faith that not only guides, but also serves, and in doing so, challenges us to reflect the image of God in the most authentic way possible.

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