Transformation Through Equipping
Scripture Reading — 2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed … so that [you] may be … equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Paul wants Timothy to be able to handle the tasks God has called him to do. There is no worse feeling than wanting to serve God while not having the necessary resources and skills. Many people, for example, long to share Christ with others but feel inadequate and inexperienced. They need equipping.
The ancient Greeks understood the meaning of “equip” in several ways. In surgery it described the setting of a broken limb. In the fishing industry it referred to the mending of nets. In politics it meant bringing together opposing groups. God longs to equip us so that there are no holes in our nets, no brokenness in our personality, and no opposing factions in our relationships.
The three main equipping agents in God’s kingdom are the Spirit, the Word, and God’s people. The Holy Spirit equips us with gifts for service, such as wisdom, discernment, teaching, encouragement, healing, administration, and service to others. Each of us should earnestly seek the gifts of the Spirit.
God’s Word, Scripture, satisfies us with truth, sanctifies us to God, strengthens us inside, separates us from sin, shields us from the evil one, and sends us out with something to say. In addition, we need to seek out mature Christians who can help us in our Christian walk. It’s a giant step toward transformation.
Lord of the church, place people in our lives with the gifts to equip us for ministry. May your Word fulfill its purpose so that we are equipped for every good work. Amen.
About the author — Dean Deppe
Dean Deppe has been a pastor in inner-city, suburban, and rural churches. Currently he teaches New Testament theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. His courses include one on the parables of Jesus. He and his wife have four grown children.
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