There are two main passages in the Bible that talk about parts or roles of the body of Christ. That is, roles for certain people in the church to do a certain job. Ephesians 4:11 and 1 Corinthians 12:28 list these various roles in the church. Let’s go through them. 

Ephesians 4:11-13

• Apostles
• Prophets
• Evangelist
• Pastors
• Teachers

Paul says that these people prepare God’s people, the other parts of the body, for service in the Lord. This is all done so they are built up and encouraged because the goal is unity in faith and knowledge. These jobs help the rest of the body to be unified in what is truth and strengthened in faith which every assembly needs. The goal is to bring together a working, knowledge filled community unified in faith by the Spirit. 

Apostles- delegates or messengers

Prophet- speaker of messages from God

Evangelist- bringer of good news

Pastors- Shepherd

Teacher- one who tells things of God, and duty of humanity.

Every church needs people that fill these roles to have a unified and strong group of Christ followers. 1 Timothy also describes having elders that oversee the body and deacons that serve the body. Paul also mentions having those who do miracles, have gifts of healing, help, and service. Every member of the body has a gift and role to play. Not everyone has the same gift but each will use their gift to bring help and unity.   

1 Corinthians 14 also discusses elements of services when we get together. He says everyone participates with either a song, teaching, revelation, tongue or interpretation of tongue. In other words, Paul urges them to use their individual gifts when they come together. Everything should be done in an orderly fashion and he gives specific instructions on that. But each one has a role to play and everyone participates who has something to give because the goal as we’ve seen is unity.