Gifted by the Spirit
The Holy Spirit has given each one of us a gift (Romans 12:7, 11). We are the body of Christ and Christ has assigned a function to each one of us as a member of the body (1 Corinthians 12:12; Romans 12:4).
Illustration: Unwrapped gift/gift unwrapped and wrapped again – How will the friend donor feel?
- Holy Trinity 1 Corinthians 12:5-7 Spirit gives the gift, the Lord Jesus is served and the Father works.
- Why God’s Spirit has given us gifts?
For the edification of his church (1 Corinthians 12:7, 31).
Not for self-gratification.
- Mark of the true gifts of the Spirit
They glorify Christ – not idols, not men (1 Corinthians 12:3)
- Gift are effective when we use them out of love (1 Corinthians 14:1, Romans 12:9-10). They are meaningless when not used out love (1 Corinthians 13: 2).
- Gifts are important
- Discover and Use them (1 Peter 4:10)
- Do not neglect them (1 Timothy 4:14)
- Desire them (1 Corinthians 14:12)
- Fan into flame: use them passionately; stir up (2 Timothy 1:6)
Note: You discover your gift as you make yourself available to serve God: Lord here I am and use me as you see fit. Internal witness and external witness to the gift.
Why many are not fruitful in the body of Christ? They do the opposite of the 4 points: Not use, neglect, do not desire, buried underground
- Unfortunately many wants to serve but focus only on certain gifts: Pastoral, Prophecy
- Discuss some of the gifts:
- Prophecy: Speak by God’s Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:3; Ephesians 5:18-21 Insubordination, pride spoil the gift)
- Word of Wisdom: Understanding, direction – Example: Joseph, Apply God’s Word in people’s lives - James
- Help: Romans 12:28 volunteer, use their hands – Illustration: build Papa Rapha
- Service: Romans 12:7; 1 Peter 4:11 Cleaning, decorate
- Giving: Romans 12:8 Poor widow; Gaius – Hospitality
- Administration: Organize 1 Corinthians 12:28 NKJV …then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues
- Mercy: Romans 12:8 listen with empathy, visit, make great intercessors
- Exhortation: Encouragement Romans 12:8
- Leadership: Romans 12:8 Courage, communicate vision
- Discerning of the spirits: 1 Corinthians 12:10 Paul and the slave girl – spirit of divination