Embracing God's Gifts: Love, Service, and Purpose
Summary
In today's gathering, we focused on the profound truth that everything we have and are comes from God. We began by acknowledging the beauty and power of God's name, recognizing that our help and redemption come from Him. As we continue our worship through His Word, we seek His guidance and presence, asking Him to meet our needs and speak to us in a real way. We are reminded that God is greater than any challenge we face, whether it be illness, financial struggles, or global issues. He is above all, and we come together to praise Him for His greatness.
Our discussion centered on spiritual gifts, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12. These gifts are supernatural abilities given by the Spirit of God exclusively to believers. They are not merely natural talents but are meant to be used for the common good, to serve others, and to glorify God. We explored the direction, function, and difference these gifts can make in our lives and the lives of others. The gifts are diverse, yet they all come from the same Spirit, and they are meant to work together for the betterment of the whole body of Christ.
We emphasized the importance of discovering our spiritual gifts and using them with love. Love is the heart of every gift, and it is what makes the difference in how we use them. Without love, our gifts are meaningless. We are called to be highways, not cul-de-sacs, allowing God's blessings to flow through us to others. This message is for believers, but for those who have not yet accepted Christ, the invitation is open to receive the greatest gift of all—salvation through Jesus Christ.
Key Takeaways:
- God's Supremacy and Our Response: We are reminded of God's greatness and supremacy over all challenges we face. Our response should be one of praise and gratitude, acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him. This perspective helps us to trust in His provision and sovereignty in every aspect of our lives. [41:59]
- Understanding Spiritual Gifts: Spiritual gifts are supernatural abilities given by the Spirit of God to believers. They are distinct from natural talents and are meant for the common good. Recognizing and utilizing these gifts is essential for serving God and others effectively. [48:01]
- The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts: Our gifts are given to us, but they are for the benefit of others. We are called to be conduits of God's blessings, allowing them to flow through us to those around us. This requires a mindset of service and selflessness. [52:40]
- The Role of Love in Using Our Gifts: Love is the foundation of every spiritual gift. Without love, our gifts are ineffective and meaningless. We must use our gifts with a heart of love, focusing on serving others rather than seeking personal gain or recognition. [01:18:44]
- Discovering and Embracing Our Function: Each believer has a unique function within the body of Christ. Discovering our spiritual gifts involves recognizing the areas where we make the most impact on others. This understanding helps us to fulfill our God-given purpose and contribute to the growth of His kingdom. [01:09:09]
Youtube Chapters:
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [39:49] - Praise and Worship
- [40:36] - Prayer for Guidance
- [41:26] - God's Supremacy
- [42:31] - Psalm 8 Reflection
- [42:59] - Introduction to Spiritual Gifts
- [43:44] - Church Vision and Mission
- [44:28] - Holistic Approach to Life
- [45:33] - Equipping the Saints
- [46:02] - 1 Corinthians 12:1
- [47:28] - Definition of Spiritual Gifts
- [48:01] - Natural Talents vs. Spiritual Gifts
- [49:43] - Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
- [52:40] - Direction of Gifts
- [56:09] - Individual and Collective Role
- [57:36] - Blessings Flow Through Us
- [01:03:43] - Body of Christ Metaphor
- [01:09:09] - Discovering Your Function
- [01:18:44] - Love and Spiritual Gifts
- [01:25:50] - True Love Defined
- [01:28:51] - Invitation to Believers and Seekers
- [01:33:03] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. 1 Corinthians 12:1-7
2. Psalm 8:3-4
3. Romans 5:8
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Observation Questions:
1. What does 1 Corinthians 12:1-7 say about the purpose of spiritual gifts? How are they meant to be used within the body of Christ? [52:40]
2. According to the sermon, how does the metaphor of the human body help us understand the function of spiritual gifts in the church? [01:05:52]
3. How does Psalm 8:3-4 reflect on God's greatness and our place in His creation? How was this passage used in the sermon to emphasize God's supremacy? [42:31]
4. What is the relationship between love and spiritual gifts as discussed in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3? How does this relate to the sermon’s message about the role of love in using our gifts? [01:18:44]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon explain the difference between natural talents and spiritual gifts? Why is it important to recognize this distinction? [48:01]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that believers can discover their spiritual gifts? How does this process contribute to the growth of the church? [01:09:09]
3. The sermon mentions that God’s blessings should flow through us to others. How does this concept challenge the way we typically view our gifts and resources? [01:02:36]
4. How does Romans 5:8 illustrate the ultimate example of love, and how does this example inform the way we should use our spiritual gifts? [01:25:50]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you used a natural talent. How might God be calling you to use a spiritual gift for the common good in your community or church? [49:43]
2. Consider the metaphor of the body of Christ. What specific role do you believe God has designed for you within your church community, and how can you begin to fulfill that role? [01:06:41]
3. The sermon challenges us to be highways, not cul-de-sacs, of God’s blessings. What practical steps can you take this week to ensure that God’s blessings flow through you to others? [01:02:36]
4. Love is described as the heart of every spiritual gift. Identify a specific way you can use your gift with love to serve someone in need this week. [01:18:44]
5. How can you cultivate a mindset of gratitude and praise in response to God’s supremacy and provision in your life? What specific practice can you implement to remind yourself of this truth daily? [41:59]
6. Reflect on the sermon’s invitation to those who have not yet accepted Christ. How can you share the message of salvation with someone in your life who may be seeking or curious about faith? [01:28:51]
7. Think about a challenge you are currently facing. How does the reminder of God’s greatness and supremacy over all challenges encourage you to trust in His provision and sovereignty? [41:59]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Supremacy in Our Challenges
In the face of life's challenges, whether they be personal struggles or global issues, it is crucial to remember the supremacy of God. He is greater than any obstacle we encounter, and everything we have is a gift from Him. This understanding should lead us to a response of praise and gratitude, trusting in His provision and sovereignty. By acknowledging God's greatness, we can find peace and assurance, knowing that He is in control and will meet our needs. Our lives should reflect this trust, as we continually seek His guidance and presence in all circumstances. [41:59]
Psalm 46:1-3 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling."
Reflection: What specific challenge are you facing today that you need to surrender to God's supremacy? How can you express your trust in His provision and sovereignty in this situation?
Day 2: Recognizing and Utilizing Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts are supernatural abilities given by the Spirit of God to believers, distinct from natural talents. These gifts are meant for the common good, to serve others, and to glorify God. Understanding and utilizing these gifts is essential for effective service in God's kingdom. Each believer is called to discover their unique gifts and use them to contribute to the growth of the body of Christ. By doing so, we fulfill our God-given purpose and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. [48:01]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ."
Reflection: What spiritual gift do you believe God has given you? How can you begin to use this gift to serve others in your community this week?
Day 3: The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts
The spiritual gifts bestowed upon us are not for personal gain but for the benefit of others. We are called to be conduits of God's blessings, allowing them to flow through us to those around us. This requires a mindset of service and selflessness, focusing on the needs of others rather than our own desires. By embracing this purpose, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those we encounter, reflecting God's love and grace in tangible ways. [52:40]
1 Corinthians 12:7 (ESV): "To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good."
Reflection: How can you shift your mindset to focus more on serving others with your spiritual gifts? What is one practical step you can take today to be a conduit of God's blessings?
Day 4: Love as the Foundation of Spiritual Gifts
Love is the heart of every spiritual gift, and without it, our gifts are ineffective and meaningless. We are called to use our gifts with a heart of love, prioritizing the well-being of others over personal recognition or gain. This love-driven approach ensures that our actions align with God's will and purpose, ultimately bringing glory to Him. By cultivating a spirit of love in all that we do, we can truly make a difference in the world around us. [01:18:44]
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (ESV): "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing."
Reflection: In what ways can you ensure that love is the driving force behind your use of spiritual gifts? How can you demonstrate this love in your interactions with others today?
Day 5: Discovering and Embracing Our Function
Each believer has a unique function within the body of Christ, and discovering our spiritual gifts is key to understanding this role. By recognizing the areas where we make the most impact, we can fulfill our God-given purpose and contribute to the growth of His kingdom. This journey of discovery involves prayer, reflection, and a willingness to step out in faith. As we embrace our function, we become active participants in God's work, making a lasting difference in the lives of those around us. [01:09:09]
Romans 12:4-6 (ESV): "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them."
Reflection: What steps can you take to discover your unique function within the body of Christ? How can you begin to actively participate in God's work using your spiritual gifts?
Quotes
1) "He's greater than your bills. He is greater than the situation on your job. He's greater than what's going on in the city. He's greater than what's going on in the school district. He's greater than what's going on in our politics. He's greater than what's going on around the world. And the wars and rumors of war. He is greater than them all. So that's why we come to praise him this morning." [41:59] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "God not only cares about your soul. Your spirit. Yes, he does. But he cares about the whole person. He cares about the whole person. So I wanted to bring that awareness to you this morning. And thank you for that. So in that theme this morning. So Pastor Romack. He gave us the guidelines. He gave us some principles about spiritual leadership last Sunday. And this Sunday I want to continue that theme. But not on leadership. I want to show how God works in this church. Even down to every single person sitting down in this room." [45:03] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "A spiritual gift is a supernatural ability given by the Spirit of God exclusively for believers. Let me say that again. A spiritual gift is a supernatural ability given by the Spirit of God exclusively to believers. That's our working definition of what is a spiritual gift. Now many of us have gifts. And talents. And natural abilities. We have skills. We have interests. We have preferences. And we may even use the word gift in a common way." [48:01] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4) "Your gift is given to you, but it is for other people. Your gift is given to you, but it is for. Other people. So look in this context of the letter to the Corinthian church. The Corinthian church, the church in Corinth is kind of similar to the churches we have today. See, Corinth was a pluralistic society. You have people coming from different areas of the Roman world because it's in the Isthmus. So it's kind of like an island. It's a place that's surrounded almost all the way by water, but there is a land connection. So this is a port city." [52:40] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5) "God has blessed you. So that you can be a blessing for others. God has gifted you. So you can be a gift for others. God has given you a spiritual, a supernatural ability. So you can share it. So you can pay it forward to others. To each one of us, God has blessed. And he has blessed you, not just for yourself, but for the common good. Now, let me say this. That doesn't mean that you can't be blessed by your own gift. In fact, to be honest, I've been blessed in abundance for my gift." [57:36] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6) "The heart of every gift is love and serving other people. The heart of every gift, whatever God has gifted you, is love and serving other people. See, my brothers and sisters, normally when we go to 1 Corinthians 13, we call it the love chapter. We go to this chapter when we want to talk about marriage or we want to get booed up. We want to know what is true love looks like. But when we look at the context of 1 Corinthians 13, the context of what Paul is saying about love is in the topic, the context of spiritual gifts." [01:18:44] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7) "Paul says, the best way to think about the gifts is to do your gifts, to function your gifts out of love. There is no better way to do your gifts. If you do your, if you function your gift without love, then you're functioning in your gift the wrong way. And there is a trap there, my brothers and sisters, because so many times, when we fall in nature, we can take something that is supernatural. We can take something that is good. We can take something that is God given and use it for the wrong reasons." [01:22:51] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8) "Love is the difference. It changes the way that you use your gift. Instead of putting the focus on yourself, it puts the focus on someone else. And isn't that what God showed us on how to love? You see, my brothers and sisters, our culture is desiring love. No matter what you believe in, everybody wants love in their life. And we see it whether it's through a movie or through a commercial. Everybody's looking for true love. Well, my brothers and sisters, we have an inside track to what true love looks like." [01:25:50] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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