Scripture References:
- 1 Peter 4:10
- 1 Corinthians 12
- Ephesians 4:11-12
- Romans 12
- Acts 5
Intro:
As followers of Jesus, we are called to serve, mirroring His example. Today, we'll explore the gifts God has given us for this purpose, focusing on the gifts from the Father (Romans 12) and the Son (Ephesians 4). These gifts are for the edification of the church and should be exercised within scriptural guidelines.
Key Points:
- Serving like Jesus: Jesus modeled servant leadership, and we are called to follow His example.
- Gifts for Edification: The gifts God gives are to build up the church, not for personal gain.
- Cultivating Gifts: We participate with God in cultivating our gifts. They are not passive abilities.
- Diverse Portions: We each receive different portions of gifts, and we should not compare ourselves to others.
- Gifts from the Father (Romans 12):
- Prophecy (Insight): Perceiving and speaking God's will.
- Service: Meeting practical needs.
- Teaching: Imparting knowledge.
- Exhortation (Encouragement): Inspiring and comforting.
- Giving: Generous provision.
- Leadership: Providing direction and vision.
- Mercy: Showing compassion and care.
- Gifts from the Son (Ephesians 4):
- Apostles: Pioneering and overseeing missional work.
- Prophets: Discerning and communicating God's will.
- Evangelists: Communicating the gospel.
- Pastors: Shepherding and caring for God's people.
- Teachers: Communicating God's revealed wisdom.
- Function over Title: Focus on the function of these gifts, not just the titles.
- Context for Gifts: Small groups and home groups are good places to cultivate gifts.
Conclusion:
God has given us diverse gifts to serve and build up the church. Understanding and operating in these gifts is essential for fulfilling our mission. Let us embrace these gifts and use them to reflect Jesus to the world.
Call to Action:
- Reflect on the gifts described in Romans 12 and Ephesians 4.
- Identify the dominant gifts in your life.
- Seek to understand how your gifts can serve the church.
- Participate in small groups to cultivate your gifts.
- If you are interested in taking a spiritual gifts inventory, please do so.
- Pray for God to reveal and activate your gifts.
- Consider the function, not just the title, of the gifts from Ephesians 4.
with Travis Aicklen
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