Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4, Acts 4:29-30
Sermon Title: Eagerly Desiring: The Gifts of the Spirit and Service
Intro:
- Welcome and context: We're in February, focusing on service, building upon servant attitudes and stewardship.
- Shifting focus to the gifts of the Spirit, emphasizing their purpose in serving and building up the church.
- Addressing potential confusion: Gifts are for service, not self-glorification.
- Setting the stage: God empowers us to serve, not to be served.
Key Points:
- Are the Gifts for Today?
- Acknowledging the cessationist vs. charismatic debate.
- Sharing a personal testimony: A reluctant charismatic's journey.
- Fear and discomfort: Addressing the anxieties surrounding spiritual gifts.
- Radiant Church's stance: A charismatic view, with biblical limits.
- Paul’s encouragement: 1 Corinthians 12:1, “Concerning spiritual gifts, I don’t want you to be ignorant.”
- Understanding the Gifts:
- Lists of gifts: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4.
- Gifts are diverse, but the Spirit is one.
- Gifts are for the common good, not individual elevation.
- The role of the Holy Spirit is to reveal Jesus.
- Addressing the stereotypes of both camps.
- Radiant Church's Approach:
- Scripture as the final authority.
- Gifts are gifts, not merit badges.
- Distinguishing between spiritual gifts and spiritual fruit.
- Signs and wonders point to Jesus, not individuals.
- Gifts serve the mission of the church, building up and edifying.
- The importance of humility and willingness to learn.
- The risk of disobedience versus the risk of obedience.
- The importance of desiring the gifts of the spirit.
Conclusion:
- Repenting for misinterpretations and stereotypes.
- Praying for unity and understanding within the church.
- Emphasizing the importance of seeking and desiring spiritual gifts.
- Gods desire to work through his church.
- Gods desire to deconstruct false narratives.
Call to Action:
- Eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:1).
- Approach the gifts with humility and a heart to serve.
- Allow Scripture to guide your understanding of the gifts.
- Pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal Jesus and empower the church.
- Seek to understand and love those who hold different views.
- Be open to the work of the Holy Spirit.
Support the show
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
Please notify us if you find any errors.
