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Spiritual Gifts and the Church

“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them” (Romans 12:5, 6).

The essence of the gifts of the Spirit is love. In 1 Corinthians; chapter 13 the apostle Paul spoke of how even though he could have the gifts of prophesy, tongues, and faith for miracles of healing, if he did not have love the gifts were nothing more than the sounding of brass and clanging of cymbals. In that same book, and chapter of the Bible; verses 4 through 8 explain that; “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself; is not puffed up; does not behave rudely; does not seek its own; is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” Paul considered it important that the church understood gifts without love were meaningless. He described how the church was made up of members with specific gifts of the Spirit. Those gifts were that of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher, working of miracles and healing, and tongues. The Christian who exercises the private gift of faith is just as important to God and His church as any other member who has a more “public” gift.

Now, the purpose of these Spiritual gifts; as bestowed by the Holy Spirit, is for the common good of each Christian, the church and for presentation of the gospel (prophesying) to unbelievers, thereby enabling them to receive Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 14:24, 25). These gifts are useful in the church when they are exercised in an orderly manner producing unity, maturity, and imparting knowledge in the body of Christ.

Are you aware of what your Spiritual gift is? All believers in Christ are given at least one, some have several. If you don't know what your gift is, seek a teaching for discovering Spiritual gifts and learn what your’s is, then put that gift to work in (His) church.

A Blessing for You:

God, I pray You make known to each one who reads this message today that special spiritual gift you have for them. Kindle in them Lord the fire to serve You so you are glorified, and so all Your people will come to know Your Son, Jesus as their personal Savior.

God wants to use you in His earthly kingdom. Put your gift(s) to work for Him.

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