Shepherd's Corner (September 24, 2025)
- Brian Lee
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
The Three Offices of Christ in the Church
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians 4:11–12, NIV).
Dear Riverside Family,
One of the great treasures of our Christian tradition is the recognition that Jesus Christ carries out His work for the Gospel community of both the Old and New Testaments, through three offices: Prophet, King, and Priest. Christ proclaims God’s truth as Prophet, rules with justice and love as King, and intercedes with mercy as Priest. These three offices together reveal the fullness of our Savior’s ministry for us.
In His wisdom, Christ has given the church ordained servant-leaders who reflect these offices in part. Teaching Elders proclaim Christ through both the preached Word and the Sacraments, pointing us to Christ the Prophet. Ruling Elders shepherd and oversee the flock, embodying Christ the King’s care. Deacons minister to the needy, showing the mercy of Christ the Priest. The distribution of the "bread" did not end with the physical, but also extended to the spiritual, as seen in the example of Stephen the Deacon.
As you might expect, these offices are not about prestige, but about becoming more Christ-like. Their calling is to model and catalyze what the whole body of Christ is called to do. What does this mean?
This means the Three Offices of Christ are not confined to the hands of a few ordained leaders. Every believer shares in Christ’s anointing. As Peter writes, “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession” (1 Peter 2:9). In other words, the entire church is called to proclaim His truth, live under His kingly rule, and show His mercy. Our servant-leaders exist not to replace your calling but to equip and inspire you to walk in it.
So, may I encourage you, whether you are ordained or not, to see your place in this biblical vision for the church. When you teach your children God’s Word at home, you share in Christ’s prophetic office. When you humbly lead your small group, exercise forgiveness, or reconcile a relationship, you reflect Christ’s kingly office. When you show compassion to the hurting, pray for the weary, or serve quietly behind the scenes, you embody Christ’s priestly mercy.
“Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).
In His Grace Alone,
Pastor Brian Lee
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