Empowered by Spiritual Gifts: Standing in the Gap
Summary
Today, the focus is on the vital role of spiritual gifts in the life of every believer and the church as a whole. God is calling each of us to stand in the gap for our communities, our schools, and our families, just as Moses and Ezekiel did in their day. The stakes we lay at the altar are more than symbolic—they represent our willingness to intercede, to declare God’s protection, and to be spiritual warriors for those around us. Jesus himself is the ultimate example of standing in the gap, having bridged the divide between God and humanity through the cross. Because of His sacrifice, we are not only forgiven but also empowered to walk in newness of life, healed from the curse of sin, and called to walk in righteousness.
The joy of the Lord is our strength and endurance, and Jesus desires that His joy would be made complete in us. When we operate in the gifts of the Spirit, we experience this joy and become instruments of God’s power and love. The gifts are not natural talents but supernatural tools given for a supernatural mission. They are meant to be used for the common good, to build up the body of Christ, and to demonstrate the reality of the gospel through signs, wonders, and transformed lives.
Too often, confusion, fear, or a desire for order has led the church to neglect or misunderstand spiritual gifts. Yet, Scripture is clear: God does not want us to be ignorant or uninformed about these gifts. Every believer is given spiritual gifts, and none are left out. These gifts are diverse but are meant to unify, not divide. They are not for self-promotion but for serving others, and they always point to God, not to ourselves.
The challenge is to discover, develop, and deploy the gifts God has given us. This requires humility, love, and a willingness to step out in faith—even if it means being seen as “radical” for Jesus. The gifts of the Spirit are not about putting on a show but about saving lives, healing the broken, and bringing glory to God. As we commit to learning about and operating in our spiritual gifts, we will see the church come alive, our communities transformed, and the joy of Jesus made complete in us.
Key Takeaways
- Standing in the Gap Is a Sacred Responsibility
God is searching for those willing to intercede for others, to build up spiritual walls of protection and blessing. Like Moses and Ezekiel, we are called to stand between God and a broken world, pleading for mercy and declaring His promises. This is not a passive calling but an active, sacrificial role that shapes destinies and invites God’s intervention. [05:10]
- Spiritual Gifts Are Supernatural Tools for a Supernatural Mission
The gifts of the Spirit are not mere extensions of our natural abilities; they are divine empowerments given for God’s purposes. They are meant to accompany the proclamation of the gospel with tangible demonstrations of God’s power—healing, deliverance, and transformation. When we neglect or misunderstand these gifts, we miss out on the fullness of God’s plan for His church and our own lives. [50:42]
- Unity and Diversity Are Both Essential in the Body of Christ
Spiritual gifts are intentionally diverse, reflecting the manifold wisdom of God. Yet, their purpose is to bring unity, not division. Every gift, whether public or hidden, is necessary for the health and effectiveness of the church. We must value and celebrate the unique contributions of each member, recognizing that we are truly better together. [01:19:21]
- Love Is the Guardrail for All Spiritual Gifts
No matter how powerful or visible a gift may be, it is meaningless without love. Love for God and for others is the foundation and boundary that keeps spiritual gifts from becoming self-serving or divisive. When our motivation is love, our gifts will always point to Jesus and build up His body, rather than seeking our own recognition. [01:29:56]
- Discover, Develop, and Deploy Your Gift with Boldness
God has given every believer spiritual gifts, but they must be unwrapped and put to use. This requires intentional seeking, learning, and a willingness to step out—even if it feels uncomfortable or radical. As we make ourselves available, God will use us in ways that exceed our natural abilities, bringing joy to Jesus and transformation to those around us. [01:41:28]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[02:00] - Prayer and Intercession for Schools
[07:30] - Standing in the Gap: Biblical Examples
[13:00] - The Power of the Blood and Testimonies of Healing
[19:00] - Announcements and Community Updates
[24:00] - Introduction to Spiritual Gifts Series
[29:00] - The Enemy’s Strategy: Confusion and Fear
[34:00] - Spiritual Gifts: God’s Supernatural Tools
[39:00] - The Joy of Jesus and the Mission of the Seventy
[46:00] - Authority Given to Believers
[53:00] - The Church’s Testimony and Jesus’ Joy
[01:01:00] - Signs, Wonders, and the Continuation of Spiritual Gifts
[01:08:00] - Understanding and Categorizing Spiritual Gifts
[01:15:00] - Unity, Diversity, and the Purpose of Gifts
[01:22:00] - Love: The Guardrail for Spiritual Gifts
[01:29:00] - Practical Applications and Personal Stories
[01:36:00] - Discover, Develop, and Deploy Your Gift
[01:43:00] - Prayer of Commitment and Closing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Spiritual Gifts and Standing in the Gap
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### Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 12:1-7, 12-14 (NIV)
1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.
2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols.
3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.
4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.
5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.
...
12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.
13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.
14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.
Luke 10:17-21 (NIV)
17 The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”
18 He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.
19 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.
20 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.”
Ezekiel 22:30 (NIV)
“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”
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### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Corinthians 12, what is the purpose of spiritual gifts, and who receives them?
2. In Luke 10, what did Jesus say was the real reason for the disciples to rejoice after their mission?
3. What does Ezekiel 22:30 reveal about God’s desire for people who will “stand in the gap”?
4. In the sermon, what examples were given of people in the Bible who stood in the gap for others? ([05:10])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul emphasizes that spiritual gifts are for the “common good” and not just for individual benefit? How does this challenge the way we sometimes view our own abilities? ([01:24:33])
2. The sermon mentioned that spiritual gifts are “supernatural tools for a supernatural mission.” What does it look like for a church or believer to operate in the supernatural, rather than just the natural? ([50:42])
3. The pastor said that “love is the guardrail for all spiritual gifts.” Why is love so essential when using our gifts, and what can happen if love is missing? ([01:29:56])
4. The message talked about unity and diversity in the body of Christ. How can differences in spiritual gifts actually strengthen the church instead of causing division? ([01:19:21])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenged us to “stand in the gap” for our families, schools, and communities. Who in your life right now needs someone to intercede for them, and what is one practical way you can do that this week? ([05:10])
2. The pastor said that every believer has spiritual gifts, but many are “still under the tree” and unopened. What is one step you can take to discover or develop your spiritual gift? Is there something holding you back from using it? ([01:41:28])
3. Sometimes fear, confusion, or a desire for order keeps us from stepping out in faith. Is there a specific area where you feel hesitant to use your gifts? What would it look like to take a “radical” step for Jesus in that area? ([01:12:50])
4. The message emphasized that gifts are for building others up, not for self-promotion. Can you think of a time when you used your abilities to serve someone else? How did it feel, and how did it point to Jesus instead of yourself? ([01:24:33])
5. The pastor said, “If you don’t have a heart for other people, it’s going to be hard for God to work through you.” Is there someone you struggle to love or serve? What is one thing you can do this week to show Christ’s love to them? ([01:37:51])
6. The sermon described the joy Jesus felt when his followers operated in their gifts. When have you experienced joy from serving God or others? How can you pursue that joy more intentionally? ([01:09:18])
7. The message ended with a call to “discover, develop, and deploy” your gift. Which of these three steps do you need to focus on most right now, and what is one action you can take this month to move forward? ([01:41:28])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray, “Lord, I’m available. Use me. Show me my gifts, fill me with your Spirit, and help me to stand in the gap for others.” ([01:49:11])
Devotional
Day 1: Stand in the Gap—Intercessory Prayer and Spiritual Responsibility
God is searching for those who will stand in the gap, interceding on behalf of others and their communities, just as Moses did for Israel and as Ezekiel described. This call is not just for a select few, but for every believer to rise up and plead for God’s mercy, protection, and blessing over their families, schools, and cities. When we step into this role, we become conduits of God’s grace, declaring His word and protection, and refusing to let our generation be found lacking in spiritual courage. The Lord desires that we take up this mantle, not shrinking back, but boldly declaring, “Here am I, Lord, send me,” and making up the hedge for those in need. [07:40]
Ezekiel 22:30 (NIV)
“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.”
Reflection: Who in your life or community needs you to “stand in the gap” for them today? Will you take time to intercede specifically for them, asking God to move on their behalf?
Day 2: The Joy of Jesus—Strength and Endurance for the Mission
The joy of the Lord is not just a fleeting feeling, but a sustaining strength that empowers believers to endure hardship and fulfill their calling. Jesus Himself was filled with joy, and He desires that His followers share in that same joy, which becomes complete as we walk in obedience and love. This joy is both our strength and our endurance, enabling us to praise God through every season and to overflow with hope and resilience, even when circumstances are difficult. When we remain in Christ’s love and keep His commands, His joy becomes our own, making us steadfast and unshakeable. [51:00]
Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)
“Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’”
John 15:9-11 (NIV)
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
Reflection: What is draining your joy right now, and how can you intentionally reconnect with Jesus’ love and commands to let His joy become your strength today?
Day 3: Spiritual Gifts—God’s Supernatural Tools for a Supernatural Mission
Spiritual gifts are not natural talents, but supernatural empowerments given by the Holy Spirit to every believer for the purpose of building up the church and advancing God’s kingdom. These gifts are diverse, yet unified by the same Spirit, and are meant to bring healing, encouragement, and strength to others—not to elevate ourselves. When the gifts of the Spirit are operating in unity and love, the church becomes effective, lost people are saved, the sick are healed, and relationships are restored. God calls us to discover, develop, and deploy these gifts, refusing to let fear or confusion keep us from being used by Him in powerful ways. [53:19]
1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-7, 12-14 (NIV)
“Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed… There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good… Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.”
Reflection: What spiritual gift has God placed in you that you have yet to unwrap or use? What is one step you can take this week to discover or activate that gift for the good of others?
Day 4: Authority and Boldness—Operating in the Power of the Spirit
Jesus has given every believer authority to advance His kingdom, to heal, to deliver, and to proclaim the good news—not as bystanders, but as active participants in His mission. The same power that worked through the seventy disciples in Luke 10 is available to us today, and God delights when His people step out in faith, using their gifts with boldness and obedience. This authority is not for show, but for service, and it requires us to move beyond comfort and fear, trusting that God will work through us to bring transformation to our world. As we walk in this authority, we become vessels through whom God’s presence and power are made known. [01:01:29]
Luke 10:17-20 (NIV)
“The seventy-two returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’ He replied, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.’”
Reflection: Where is God calling you to step out in boldness and use your spiritual authority this week? What is one specific situation where you can trust Him to work through you?
Day 5: Love—The Guardrail and Goal of All Spiritual Gifts
Love is the essential guardrail that keeps spiritual gifts operating in a healthy, God-honoring way. Without love, even the most spectacular gifts are empty and ineffective. God’s desire is that we use our gifts to serve others, to build up the body, and to point all glory back to Jesus. When we love one another deeply, we become faithful stewards of God’s grace, and the church becomes a place of unity, healing, and strength. Let love be the motivation and measure of every act of service, every word spoken, and every gift exercised, so that God is glorified and people are drawn to Him. [01:29:56]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (NIV)
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
Reflection: How can you intentionally use your gifts to serve someone in love today, making sure that your actions point others to Jesus rather than to yourself?
Quotes
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