The biblical picture of Equipping is rich and practical. The Greek word used in Ephesians 4:12 is katartismos, which has meanings which encompass ideas like mending what is broken, setting things in order, or bringing to full function. It is essentially the same term used for setting a broken bone or mending fishing nets (Matt. 4:21) actions that make items fit and complete for usefulness.

At the Berean Institute, Equipping means:

• Teaching and confirming sound doctrine so that leaders know what they believe and why. (2 Tim. 3:16; Titus 1:9)

• Discipling (see Nurturing below) toward spiritual growth so that faith is not stagnant but maturing. (Col. 1:28; Matt. 28:19-20; Heb. 6:1)

• Training and confirming gifts for ministry so that leaders serve with both competence and confidence. (1 Pet. 4:10; Rom. 12:6-8; 2 Tim. 2:2)

• Encouraging practical obedience so that what is learned is lived. (James 1:22; Phil. 2:12-13)

Equipping is not filling heads with knowledge; it is transforming lives for fruitful service in the mission of God.

When we speak of Shepherds, our understanding includes individuals like elders, deacons, Sunday school teachers, ministry leaders, and faithful servants, many of whom lead without formal education or official titles.

Biblically, Shepherds are those who fulfill some or all of the following:

• They feed and protect the flock (Ezek. 34:2-4; John 21:15-17).

• They know the flock personally and are trusted (John 10:3-4).

• They lead with humility, gentleness, and sacrificial love (John 10:11-15; Phil 2:3).

• They give strength to the weak and pursue those who stray (Ezek. 34:4, 16).

• They point people to Jesus, and not to themselves (1 Pet. 5:2-4; 2 Cor. 4:5).

A Shepherd is called to exemplify Christ’s example, which is practically worked out in areas like serving, guiding, protecting, and uniting God’s people.

Competence is not just potential; it is demonstrated ability.

A Competent shepherd successfully executes the 37 Outcomes established by Re-Forma, demonstrating the skills, knowledge, and character qualities that show proper fitness for ministry. Depending on the individual shepherd’s context, not all 37 Re-Forma Outcomes may apply.

As Paul instructed Timothy, ministry leaders [shepherds] must “present themselves to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).

Ministry Competence ensures that shepherds are not only willing, but more importantly, they are able to engage in the mission of God faithfully.

Nurturing is the intentional, relational process of helping others follow Jesus. It involves teaching, modeling, correcting, and encouraging, and especially a one-on-one journey together toward Christlikeness.

Biblical Nurturing is seen in individuals who help others to:

• Abide in God’s Word (John 8:31).

• Obey Christ’s commands (Matt. 28:20).

• Grow together in maturity (Luke 6:40).

• Pass on what we’ve learned to others (2 Tim. 2:2).

Nurturing is more than biblical education or programs of study; it is the intentional personal investment in the spiritual well-being of others.

Spiritual Maturity is the goal of nurturing [discipleship] process.

Maturity does not result in the uniformity of opinions but ultimately results in unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God (Eph. 4:13).

A Mature believer is one who:

• Demonstrates Christlike character (Phil. 2:3-8).

• Fosters healthy biblical relationships (Rom. 12:4-21).

• Understands and properly and practically applies Scripture (Col. 1:28-29; Phil. 4:9; Matt. 13:23).

• Actively engages as part of the body of Christ (Eph. 4:7, 16).

Personal spiritual Maturity and humble service of others is a significant measure of true success in ministry.

Equipped and mature believers actively participate fully in the life of the church and the mission of God.

Active Engagement includes, among other things, the practical implementation of the following:

• Using gifts, time, and resources for the health of the Body of Christ (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12:1-8).

• Evangelizing locally and globally (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 1:8).

• Discipleship: Nurturing and mentoring others (2 Tim. 2:2).

• Demonstrating the love of Christ through real-world, life-on-life application (James 1:22, 2:14-20).

The Body of Christ thrives when every member is Actively Engaged in the mission of God.

The heart of ministry is participation in God’s Mission, which is the redemption of His people and the spread of His kingdom.

Participation in the Mission of God involves, but is not limited to:

• Proclaiming the good news of the person and work of Jesus Christ (Mark 1:15; Rom. 10:14-17).

• Living as witnesses through obedience, demonstrating godly character and conduct (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 1:27).

• Loving and serving the Body of Christ (John 20:21; Acts 1:8).

• Practicing the “one anothers” of Scripture in community. (John 13:34-35; Rom. 12:10, 15:7; 1 Peter 4:9; Eph. 4:32; et. al.)

We are co-laborers in Christ, desiring to see people be redeemed to God and actively engaged in His Mission until Christ returns.