Tools for Ministry: Equipped for the Work of Building Up the Body of Christ

In most congregations, a few people do most of the work while everyone else watches. Ephesians 4 describes a church where every member has a part, and this study shows how to get there.

Tools for Ministry: Equipped for the Work of Building Up the Body of Christ is a 13-lesson workbook by Matthew Allen in the Growth Tracks series. Rooted in Ephesians 4:11–12, it gives everyday Christians the biblical tools for real service in the church.

How This Study Helps

Many members would gladly serve but don't know where to start, or they assume ministry belongs to preachers and elders. Others jump in and burn out when conflict or discouragement comes. Either way, the church loses the strength God intended it to have.

This study moves members from spectators to participants. It teaches how to read and apply Scripture, pray for the work, encourage brothers and sisters, share your faith with confidence, and serve with your gifts. It also covers handling conflict, forgiving, persevering, and finishing faithfully. Each lesson combines Scripture, teaching, reflection, and action steps.

Format & Features

Thirteen lessons in a perfect-bound softcover of more than 140 pages, with Scripture quoted from the Christian Standard Bible. It's also available as a PDF eBook for individual use, or with a class-use license for churches.

Who It's For

Bible classes and small groups, church leadership training, new member discipleship, and congregations that want to equip every member for the work.

Common Questions

Which translation does it use?
The Christian Standard Bible (CSB).

Can I use it to teach a class?
Yes. Order print copies for each student, or choose the PDF class-use license.

Is it good for leadership training?
Yes. It works well for training leaders and for helping every member find a place to serve.

About the Author

Matthew Allen is the pulpit minister at Cornerstone Church of Christ in Centerville, Ohio, and co-owner of Spiritbuilding Publishers. With more than three decades of preaching across the country and abroad, he writes for Christians who want substance, clarity, and the steady encouragement of grace.

About the Series

Tools for Ministry is part of the Growth Tracks series, a line of Spiritbuilding workbooks launched in 2023 to strengthen and encourage Christians wherever they are in their walk.

Product Details

• Author: Matthew Allen
• Publisher: Spiritbuilding Publishers
• ISBN: 9781964805573
• Lessons: 13
• Pages: 143+
• Translation: CSB
• Format: Perfect-bound softcover; PDF eBook (individual or class use)