Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; 1 Corinthians 14:1; 2 Timothy 1:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (References Acts examples)
Intro: (Podcast Sermon Title Suggestion: Word AND Spirit: Embracing the Tension)
- Continuing the series on living in biblical tensions (Grace/Truth, Cohesion/Inclusion).
- This week's tension: Word vs. Spirit – Holding together the importance of God's revealed Word (doctrine, truth, Scripture) and the active power of the Holy Spirit (experience, gifts, miracles).
- Radiant Church aims to be a "Word and Spirit" church, living in this vital tension.
Key Points:
- The Need for Power:
- Observing the "gap" between our current reality and the biblical potential for the church (e.g., unanswered prayer, lack of life-change).
- Argues that beyond relevance or human effort, what's needed is a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit's supernatural power to close this gap. Power is always relevant.
- Spiritual Gifts Continue Today:
- Counters cessationist views (that miraculous gifts ended with the apostles).
- NT examples show gifts operated beyond the apostles (Stephen, Philip, etc.).
- The primary purpose of gifts – strengthening the church – remains valid today. The Bible doesn't teach that these gifts have ceased.
- Engaging Gifts Biblically:
- Our role regarding spiritual gifts includes:
- Eagerly Desire: It's a command, not just openness (1 Cor 14:1).
- Don't Neglect: Stir up, practice, and use the gifts God has given (2 Tim 1:6). Prioritize obedience over perfect understanding.
- Redeem from Abuse: Past misuse doesn't justify disuse. The answer is better, biblical practice.
- Test All Things: Especially prophecy; hold fast to good, reject the bad (1 Thess 5:19-21).
- Word AND Spirit Integration:
- Avoid the extremes of being "Word-only" (potentially dry, lacking power) or "Spirit-only" (potentially subjective, lacking grounding).
- Strive for healthy integration:
- Gifts operate alongside the Fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5).
- Experiences and gifts are tested by Scripture.
- Gifts primarily serve the Mission of God, not just internal meetings.
- Seek Unity in diversity, not uniformity of expression.
- Signs and wonders should point to Jesus, not the individual.
- Jesus (Word made flesh, full of the Spirit) is our ultimate Model.
- True spiritual power operates with love and self-control (2 Tim 1:7).
Conclusion:
- We commit to living in the tension, valuing both the unchanging truth of God's Word and the dynamic, empowering presence of His Spirit, including all His gifts. This balanced approach is essential for a healthy, effective church that closes the gap between "is" and "ought."
Call to Action:
- Personally, eagerly desire all God has for you, including spiritual gifts.
- Don't neglect the gifts God has already given you – stir them up!
- Commit to testing all experiences and prophetic words by Scripture.
- Pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit's power – linked with love and self-control – upon yourself and upon the church for the sake of God's mission.
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