QUESTION: What are the differences in the five gifts described in Ephesians 4:11,12?

ANSWER: In last quarter's issue we began a study of evangelists which is concluded here.

4. Their message. "Jesus Christ, and Him crucified" (1 Cor. 2:2). "For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servnts for Jesus' sake" (2 Cor. 4:5). The evangelist, as led of the Lord, may emphasize different parts of that message depending upon the condition of the hearers, but Jesus Christ and His work will always be referred to. This can be seen in the difference in Paul preaching to those at Athens and those at Antioch in Pisidia (Acts 13:16-41 and Acts 17:22-31).

5. Their support. The Bible clearly shows that evangelists, pastors and teachers were supported by the prayers and freewill offerings of the Lord's people in the various assemblies. The apostle Paul often worked at night to provide his own support, although he maintained the right of the laborer to be supported by those to whom he preached (Phil. 4:15-19; 3 John 1:7; 1 Cor. 9:1-18; 16:1,2; 2 Cor. 2:9; 12:14-17.

6. Their accountability. Evangelists (as well as pastors and teachers) have to answer to their local assembly for their actions and their teaching. They will ultimately have to give account to the One who called them and gave them their gift (Matt. 25:14-30; 1 Cor. 4:5).

7. The results. The results. When a true evangelist preaches, unsaved listeners will be convicted of sin, the way of salvation will be made plain and unsaved ones will be compelled to come to the Lord. How encouraging it is when results are immediately present! Yet, often the results may not be seen until much later. Knowing that God will always bless His Word, the final results must be left with God until that day when everything will be revealed (Isaiah 55:8-11).

—John D. McNeil