“...whereas our seemly members have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked...” I Cor 12:24
The second principle - The Importance is Equally Distributed.
Less honorable in verse 23 = The parts of the body we clothe = torso.
‘Unseemly’ means shameful, indecent, or unpresentable, and here refers to those parts of the body that are considered private and to be covered. In virtually all societies of history, with exception of a few primitive tribes, those parts of the body have been treated with modesty. The fact that many people today are discarding this natural modesty and are exploiting the display of traditionally private parts, indicates the extent of modern depravity.
The point that Paul is making is that although we may have parts covered, or they are hidden within, they are of equal importance.
Those in positions of leadership and prominence not only should not look down on those whose gifts are less noticeable, but should take special care to show them appreciation and to protect them when necessary.
Specially gifted Christians are specially obligated to “encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men.” I Thess 5:14
I believe one of the greatest shocks in eternity will be the Bema Judgement. When we all stand before the Lord, and He reveals our attitude and actions. You will be surprised!
“But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.” Matt 19:30
“And whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.” Matt 20:27
We have not been called to compete with each other, but to care and minister to each other!
Tomorrow we'll look at the Paul's third principle...
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
It’s Not Appearance
“On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary...” I Cor 12:22
Up to this point, Paul had talked about the conspicuous members of the human body for his illustrations of spiritual ministries: foot, hand, ear, eye, and nose.
To press his analogy, Paul now introduced those members which are not readily observed. In doing so, he set forth 3 major principles.
First Principle -- Importance Is Not Based Upon Appearance.
You listen to the average you person describe what they see in another young person-beautiful blue eyes, long flowing hair, gorgeous white teeth. Girls say, “He’s a hunk, he has big biceps, and a manly appearance, etc. In the church, it’s the same way! “He’s the Pastor, he’s a deacon, he is the biggest giver, etc.”
The point Paul is making is this - As important as some of the prominent members of the human body are, it is possible to live without them. They are important, but not absolutely necessary. You can lose an eye, ear, a hand, or leg, and still live. However, you cannot lose your heart, liver, or brain, and live. Those organs are more hidden than the others, but also are more vital. You can notice the breathing of your lungs and the pulse of your heartbeat, but their work is not nearly as obvious as what we do with our hands or feet. Those less noticed parts, internal organs, seem to be weaker than much of the rest of the body, external limbs, but they are also more necessary. I’ve never heard someone say: “What a liver!...What a strong heart!...What a healthy specimen!”
We judge people by their looks. And so it was in Corinth, they had put a premium on the gifts that seemed to be more showy, noticeable, or flashy.
Paul is saying “No Way!”
The most vital ministries in a church always include some that are not obvious. The faithful prayers and services of a few dedicated saints, who hold no office, frequently are the most reliable and productive channels of spiritual power in a congregation. The Corinthian Church had failed to be considerate and appreciative of those who did not have the “out front” gifts such as prophecy, languages, or healing. Those with less noticeable ministries are sometimes vulnerable to misunderstanding, neglect, and lack of appreciation. They should be protected by fellow believers just as the body protects its vital organs.
Tomorrow we'll look at Paul's second major principle...
Up to this point, Paul had talked about the conspicuous members of the human body for his illustrations of spiritual ministries: foot, hand, ear, eye, and nose.
To press his analogy, Paul now introduced those members which are not readily observed. In doing so, he set forth 3 major principles.
First Principle -- Importance Is Not Based Upon Appearance.
You listen to the average you person describe what they see in another young person-beautiful blue eyes, long flowing hair, gorgeous white teeth. Girls say, “He’s a hunk, he has big biceps, and a manly appearance, etc. In the church, it’s the same way! “He’s the Pastor, he’s a deacon, he is the biggest giver, etc.”
The point Paul is making is this - As important as some of the prominent members of the human body are, it is possible to live without them. They are important, but not absolutely necessary. You can lose an eye, ear, a hand, or leg, and still live. However, you cannot lose your heart, liver, or brain, and live. Those organs are more hidden than the others, but also are more vital. You can notice the breathing of your lungs and the pulse of your heartbeat, but their work is not nearly as obvious as what we do with our hands or feet. Those less noticed parts, internal organs, seem to be weaker than much of the rest of the body, external limbs, but they are also more necessary. I’ve never heard someone say: “What a liver!...What a strong heart!...What a healthy specimen!”
We judge people by their looks. And so it was in Corinth, they had put a premium on the gifts that seemed to be more showy, noticeable, or flashy.
Paul is saying “No Way!”
The most vital ministries in a church always include some that are not obvious. The faithful prayers and services of a few dedicated saints, who hold no office, frequently are the most reliable and productive channels of spiritual power in a congregation. The Corinthian Church had failed to be considerate and appreciative of those who did not have the “out front” gifts such as prophecy, languages, or healing. Those with less noticeable ministries are sometimes vulnerable to misunderstanding, neglect, and lack of appreciation. They should be protected by fellow believers just as the body protects its vital organs.
Tomorrow we'll look at Paul's second major principle...
Friday, March 28, 2008
Not Independence, but Interdependence
“But now there are many members, but one body.” I Cor 12:20
Paul is writing to the Corinthian church, a church in division and turmoil over Spiritual truth. Chapter 12 is written to emphasize the unity that is needed in the church.
Although there is a diversity of gifts, there must be a unity of the Spirit.
Corinth is being torn apart by division, selfishness, disunity, abuse, immaturity, and an over all lack of love. It’s everybody doing their own things, and to them, Paul is addressing their abuse of Spiritual gifts.
Now with all of the emphasis on me, two attitudes have developed. First, I’m not necessary, I’m not that important! Second, I don’t need anybody, especially you! To all of this, we have looked at verses 1-19. The point is no one can say, “I’m not important.” Which means, It’s not independence, it is interdependence.
Diversity in the body is evidence of the wisdom of God. Each member needs the other members, and no member can afford to become independent. When a part of the human body becomes independent, you have a serious problem that could lead to sickness and even death. In a healthy human body, the various members cooperate with each other and even compensate for each other when a crisis occurs. The instant any part of the body says to any other part, “I don’t need you,” it begins to weaken, die, and create problems for the whole body. It’s not just the exposed parts of the body, but all of the body.
Just as the eye cannot say to the hand, the feet, or the heart, “I have no need of you,” neither can we say to one another, “I have no need of you.”
Paul is writing to the Corinthian church, a church in division and turmoil over Spiritual truth. Chapter 12 is written to emphasize the unity that is needed in the church.
Although there is a diversity of gifts, there must be a unity of the Spirit.
Corinth is being torn apart by division, selfishness, disunity, abuse, immaturity, and an over all lack of love. It’s everybody doing their own things, and to them, Paul is addressing their abuse of Spiritual gifts.
Now with all of the emphasis on me, two attitudes have developed. First, I’m not necessary, I’m not that important! Second, I don’t need anybody, especially you! To all of this, we have looked at verses 1-19. The point is no one can say, “I’m not important.” Which means, It’s not independence, it is interdependence.
Diversity in the body is evidence of the wisdom of God. Each member needs the other members, and no member can afford to become independent. When a part of the human body becomes independent, you have a serious problem that could lead to sickness and even death. In a healthy human body, the various members cooperate with each other and even compensate for each other when a crisis occurs. The instant any part of the body says to any other part, “I don’t need you,” it begins to weaken, die, and create problems for the whole body. It’s not just the exposed parts of the body, but all of the body.
Just as the eye cannot say to the hand, the feet, or the heart, “I have no need of you,” neither can we say to one another, “I have no need of you.”
Thursday, March 27, 2008
One, But Many
“For the body is not one member, but many.” I Cor 12:14
"On a hunting trip, I stepped off a cliff and hurt my foot. When I went to the doctor, I asked him how many bones were in the foot. He told me that there were 27. I said, "I think I hurt all 27 of them!" “No” he said, “You hurt only one.” Now I tell you, I may have hurt only one of them, but my whole foot was painful. When one member suffers, they all suffer." – Dr. J. Vernon Megree
We are different, we are one. There is diversity, but there must be unity!
So with that backdrop, Paul gives us four principles concerning diversity...
The body performs many functions
One member does not constitute a body. An arm, by itself, is not a body. Neither are members, dissected from each other, a body. To be a body, all the members must function and be organically related to each other. Thus, all Christians should not expect to have the same gift.
Each function is important
No member should belittle his importance just because he cannot do the functions of other members. Neither can a foot be a hand nor an ear an eye. This inability does not remove its membership or functional necessity within the body. Thus, a member should not covet the function of another.
Each function must be performed
If all members performed only one function, then other necessary functions would go undone. A body consisting of only an eye or an ear would be a monstrosity.
God assigns each function
God decides what each member will be, when he will function, and where. God framed the human body by giving it two eyes in the front of the head and two ears on each respective side. So it is with the true church. God sovereignly gifts believers and assigns them special functions.
"On a hunting trip, I stepped off a cliff and hurt my foot. When I went to the doctor, I asked him how many bones were in the foot. He told me that there were 27. I said, "I think I hurt all 27 of them!" “No” he said, “You hurt only one.” Now I tell you, I may have hurt only one of them, but my whole foot was painful. When one member suffers, they all suffer." – Dr. J. Vernon Megree
We are different, we are one. There is diversity, but there must be unity!
So with that backdrop, Paul gives us four principles concerning diversity...
The body performs many functions
One member does not constitute a body. An arm, by itself, is not a body. Neither are members, dissected from each other, a body. To be a body, all the members must function and be organically related to each other. Thus, all Christians should not expect to have the same gift.
Each function is important
No member should belittle his importance just because he cannot do the functions of other members. Neither can a foot be a hand nor an ear an eye. This inability does not remove its membership or functional necessity within the body. Thus, a member should not covet the function of another.
Each function must be performed
If all members performed only one function, then other necessary functions would go undone. A body consisting of only an eye or an ear would be a monstrosity.
God assigns each function
God decides what each member will be, when he will function, and where. God framed the human body by giving it two eyes in the front of the head and two ears on each respective side. So it is with the true church. God sovereignly gifts believers and assigns them special functions.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Baptized Into One Body
“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” I Cor 12:13
It is unfortunate that the term “baptism of the Spirit” has been divorced from its original New Testament meaning. God has spoken to us in Spirit, given words which we must not confuse. I Cor 2:12-13
The baptism of the Spirit occurs at conversion when the Spirit enters the believing sinner, gives him new life, and makes his body the temple of God. All believers have experienced this once-for-all baptism. Nowhere does the Scripture command us to seek this baptism, because we have already experienced it and it need not be repeated.
The “filling of the Spirit” Eph 5:18, has to do with the Spirit’s control of our lives. In Scripture, to be filled by something means “to be controlled by.” We are commanded to be filled, and we can be, if we yield all to Christ and ask Him for the Spirit’s filling. This is a repeated experience, for we constantly need to be filled with spiritual power if we are to glorify Christ.
To be baptized by the Spirit means that we belong to Christ’s body. To be filled with the Spirit means that our bodies belong to Christ.
The evidence of the Spirit’s baptism at conversion is the witness of the Spirit within, Romans 8:14-16. It is not “speaking in tongues.” All of the believers in the Corinthian assembly had been baptized by the Spirit, but no all of them spoke in tongues.
The evidence of Spirit’s filling are:
• Power for witnessing....Acts 1:8
• Joyfulness and submission....Eph 5:9
• Christlikeness....Gal 5:22-26
• A growing understanding of the Word....John 16:12-15
It is not possible to be a Christian and not be baptized by Christ with the Holy Spirit. Nor is it possible to have more than one baptism with the Spirit. There is only one Spirit baptism, the baptism of Christ with the Spirit that all believers receive when they are born again.
Paul’s central point in I Cor 12:13 is that baptism with the one Spirit makes the church one Body. If there were more than one Spirit baptism, there would be more than one church, and Paul’s whole point here would be destroyed. He is using the doctrine of baptism with the Spirit to show the unity of all believers in the Body. Many erring teachers today have used a wrong interpretation of the baptism with the Spirit, to divide off from the Body and imagined spiritual elite who have what the rest do not. That idea violates the whole teaching here.
We are one. We may have different gifts, ministries, and callings, but we are one Body in Christ.
It is unfortunate that the term “baptism of the Spirit” has been divorced from its original New Testament meaning. God has spoken to us in Spirit, given words which we must not confuse. I Cor 2:12-13
The baptism of the Spirit occurs at conversion when the Spirit enters the believing sinner, gives him new life, and makes his body the temple of God. All believers have experienced this once-for-all baptism. Nowhere does the Scripture command us to seek this baptism, because we have already experienced it and it need not be repeated.
The “filling of the Spirit” Eph 5:18, has to do with the Spirit’s control of our lives. In Scripture, to be filled by something means “to be controlled by.” We are commanded to be filled, and we can be, if we yield all to Christ and ask Him for the Spirit’s filling. This is a repeated experience, for we constantly need to be filled with spiritual power if we are to glorify Christ.
To be baptized by the Spirit means that we belong to Christ’s body. To be filled with the Spirit means that our bodies belong to Christ.
The evidence of the Spirit’s baptism at conversion is the witness of the Spirit within, Romans 8:14-16. It is not “speaking in tongues.” All of the believers in the Corinthian assembly had been baptized by the Spirit, but no all of them spoke in tongues.
The evidence of Spirit’s filling are:
• Power for witnessing....Acts 1:8
• Joyfulness and submission....Eph 5:9
• Christlikeness....Gal 5:22-26
• A growing understanding of the Word....John 16:12-15
It is not possible to be a Christian and not be baptized by Christ with the Holy Spirit. Nor is it possible to have more than one baptism with the Spirit. There is only one Spirit baptism, the baptism of Christ with the Spirit that all believers receive when they are born again.
Paul’s central point in I Cor 12:13 is that baptism with the one Spirit makes the church one Body. If there were more than one Spirit baptism, there would be more than one church, and Paul’s whole point here would be destroyed. He is using the doctrine of baptism with the Spirit to show the unity of all believers in the Body. Many erring teachers today have used a wrong interpretation of the baptism with the Spirit, to divide off from the Body and imagined spiritual elite who have what the rest do not. That idea violates the whole teaching here.
We are one. We may have different gifts, ministries, and callings, but we are one Body in Christ.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Unity in Diversity
"For even as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body, though they are many, are one body, so also is Christ." I Cor 12:12
As with everything else in the church, the Corinthians were divided over the issue of gifts, as to their use, operations and source.
Because there was division in the Corinthian church, Paul began with an emphasis on the oneness of the church. He pointed out four wonderful bonds of spiritual unity -
• We confess the same Lord...verses 1-3
• We depend on the same God...verses 4-6
• We minister to the same body...verses 7-11
• We have experienced the same baptism...verses 12-13
Paul wanted the Corinthians to recognize their spiritual oneness within the body of Christ. To do so, he showed a similarity between the human body and the true church. The human body has many parts or members, but it is still one body. This truth was stated in two ways: One body has many members and many members make one body. The analogy is clear, "so also is Christ."
The equation of Christ with His mystical body, the church - can be seen here.
Christ said to Saul who had devastated the church, "...why are you persecuting Me?" Acts 9:4. There is one church, not many churches, and all believers, regardless of their race, sex, social status, or denominational affillication, belong to that one church.
There are many Christian organizations, denominations, agencies, clubs, and groups of every sort. But there is only one church, of which every true believer in Christ is a member. Paul is so intent on driving home the point of oneness in the church, that he refers to Christ as the church, so also is Christ.
Jesus said, "I am the vine, you are the branches, he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing." John 15:5
A severed branch not only is an unproductive branch, but a lifeless branch. It is for that reason that the New Testament speaks of our being in Christ and of Christ's being in us. He is more than simply with His church, He is in His church and His church is in Him. They are totally identified. The church is an organic whole, the living manifestation of Jesus Christ that pulses with the eternal life of God.
As with everything else in the church, the Corinthians were divided over the issue of gifts, as to their use, operations and source.
Because there was division in the Corinthian church, Paul began with an emphasis on the oneness of the church. He pointed out four wonderful bonds of spiritual unity -
• We confess the same Lord...verses 1-3
• We depend on the same God...verses 4-6
• We minister to the same body...verses 7-11
• We have experienced the same baptism...verses 12-13
Paul wanted the Corinthians to recognize their spiritual oneness within the body of Christ. To do so, he showed a similarity between the human body and the true church. The human body has many parts or members, but it is still one body. This truth was stated in two ways: One body has many members and many members make one body. The analogy is clear, "so also is Christ."
The equation of Christ with His mystical body, the church - can be seen here.
Christ said to Saul who had devastated the church, "...why are you persecuting Me?" Acts 9:4. There is one church, not many churches, and all believers, regardless of their race, sex, social status, or denominational affillication, belong to that one church.
There are many Christian organizations, denominations, agencies, clubs, and groups of every sort. But there is only one church, of which every true believer in Christ is a member. Paul is so intent on driving home the point of oneness in the church, that he refers to Christ as the church, so also is Christ.
Jesus said, "I am the vine, you are the branches, he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing." John 15:5
A severed branch not only is an unproductive branch, but a lifeless branch. It is for that reason that the New Testament speaks of our being in Christ and of Christ's being in us. He is more than simply with His church, He is in His church and His church is in Him. They are totally identified. The church is an organic whole, the living manifestation of Jesus Christ that pulses with the eternal life of God.
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Secret to Getting People
"And the master said to the slave...'compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.'" Luke 14:23
Dr Spurgeon was asked, "What is the secret of the great success at Metropolitan Tabernacle in London where you are Pastor?" He said, "I preach the Gospel on Sunday and my people go out and share it all week."
The secret to getting more people into the Kingdom of God is simple.
Luke 14:15-24 gives us the threefold formula for getting more people into the Kingdom:
First - INVITE them
In every way possible, invite them to...hear the Gospel...to church...to the Savior. There is always someone who is just waiting for a Christian friend to invite them to know their Savior.
Second - BRING them
Do not stop short of personally bringing those you invite to hear the good news of the Gospel. How many do YOU bring with you on Sunday as your guest to meet your Savior.
Third - COMPEL them
Let the love of Christ constrain you as you constrain them by persuasion, compassion, and loving concern. Do people really believe you are interested? Do they really believe that you care?
Let us do it God's way and get God's results!
And as you thing about who to ask, remember two very important things -- Eighty-three percent of everyone in church is there because someone invited them to come. Statistics tell us today in our culture over eighty percent of people said, that they would come to church...IF someone asked them -- SO -- Let's ask!!!
Dr Spurgeon was asked, "What is the secret of the great success at Metropolitan Tabernacle in London where you are Pastor?" He said, "I preach the Gospel on Sunday and my people go out and share it all week."
The secret to getting more people into the Kingdom of God is simple.
Luke 14:15-24 gives us the threefold formula for getting more people into the Kingdom:
First - INVITE them
In every way possible, invite them to...hear the Gospel...to church...to the Savior. There is always someone who is just waiting for a Christian friend to invite them to know their Savior.
Second - BRING them
Do not stop short of personally bringing those you invite to hear the good news of the Gospel. How many do YOU bring with you on Sunday as your guest to meet your Savior.
Third - COMPEL them
Let the love of Christ constrain you as you constrain them by persuasion, compassion, and loving concern. Do people really believe you are interested? Do they really believe that you care?
Let us do it God's way and get God's results!
And as you thing about who to ask, remember two very important things -- Eighty-three percent of everyone in church is there because someone invited them to come. Statistics tell us today in our culture over eighty percent of people said, that they would come to church...IF someone asked them -- SO -- Let's ask!!!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Christ Died For Us
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
It is the thing upon which our eternal destiny hinges. Spurgeon said, “Upon a life I did not live, upon a death I did not die, I risk my whole eternity, and the resurrection is the why.”
The first sermon ever preached in the church of Jesus Christ, when it was born on the day of Pentecost, was a resurrection sermon. As you follow the life of the church through the Book of Acts and the rest of the epistles, the resurrection of Christ is the theme.
But to be able to rejoice in the resurrection, we must understand the cross. Here before us is a simple statement and profound truth. The first two words state a historical fact; the second two add the theological significance. Put together, these four words from the heart of the Good News, we call the Gospel.
On this occasion, let us remember together why we celebrate the fact that as believers we have a blessed hope of eternal salvation, a heavenly home, and a glorious future. It is secured and sealed in the resurrection, but it is based on the fact that Christ Jesus came into the world to seek and to save that which was lost, and because of that...Christ died for us.
It is the thing upon which our eternal destiny hinges. Spurgeon said, “Upon a life I did not live, upon a death I did not die, I risk my whole eternity, and the resurrection is the why.”
The first sermon ever preached in the church of Jesus Christ, when it was born on the day of Pentecost, was a resurrection sermon. As you follow the life of the church through the Book of Acts and the rest of the epistles, the resurrection of Christ is the theme.
But to be able to rejoice in the resurrection, we must understand the cross. Here before us is a simple statement and profound truth. The first two words state a historical fact; the second two add the theological significance. Put together, these four words from the heart of the Good News, we call the Gospel.
On this occasion, let us remember together why we celebrate the fact that as believers we have a blessed hope of eternal salvation, a heavenly home, and a glorious future. It is secured and sealed in the resurrection, but it is based on the fact that Christ Jesus came into the world to seek and to save that which was lost, and because of that...Christ died for us.
Friday, March 21, 2008
He Has Risen
“He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said.” Matthew 28:6
In the famous Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, there is an unusual group of four stained glass windows in the rear of the sanctuary. Looking at them from the left of the entrance inside, one sees the scenes of Gethsemane and Calvary. On the right, are portrayed the Resurrection and Ascension. By a strange coincidence, which seems a divine providence, an adjacent building is so located that Gethsemane and Calvary are always dark. On the other side, however, the bright afternoon sun shines through the Resurrection and Ascension. This seems a beautiful parable of the fact that while the lights went out at Calvary, they came on again at the empty tomb on Easter morning.
I remember when the movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” was released. It was a moving, emotional, and in many ways, a graphic portrayal of the Crucifixion of Christ. I told the congregation that the one thing I would have done when the screen went black, between the Crucifixion and the Resurrection, is put up these words, “Then came Sunday morning!”
The lights went out, it seemed on Friday, but praise God victory came on Sunday!
Without a doubt, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single greatest event in the history of the world!
In the famous Home Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, there is an unusual group of four stained glass windows in the rear of the sanctuary. Looking at them from the left of the entrance inside, one sees the scenes of Gethsemane and Calvary. On the right, are portrayed the Resurrection and Ascension. By a strange coincidence, which seems a divine providence, an adjacent building is so located that Gethsemane and Calvary are always dark. On the other side, however, the bright afternoon sun shines through the Resurrection and Ascension. This seems a beautiful parable of the fact that while the lights went out at Calvary, they came on again at the empty tomb on Easter morning.
I remember when the movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” was released. It was a moving, emotional, and in many ways, a graphic portrayal of the Crucifixion of Christ. I told the congregation that the one thing I would have done when the screen went black, between the Crucifixion and the Resurrection, is put up these words, “Then came Sunday morning!”
The lights went out, it seemed on Friday, but praise God victory came on Sunday!
Without a doubt, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single greatest event in the history of the world!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Source of all Spiritual Gifts
“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” I Cor 12:7
Where do spiritual gifts come from? They are all given by or in the manifestation of the divine trinity. The gifts are given by the same spirit. The ministries are assigned by the same Lord, and the effects are energized by the same God.
Manifestation is what spiritual gifts do. They make the Holy Spirit known, clear and evident in the church and in the world. Spiritual gifts were never given to be hidden or to be used privately. They were given for the common good. Spiritual gifts are to be edifying and helpful to the church and to God’s people, who He brings together in His name.
On the other hand, when we fail to minister with all our gifts, we hinder others in ministering theirs. A Christian, who does not exercise his spiritual gifts, cripples his own ministry and the ministry of others, to say nothing of forfeiting the blessings and reward that would have come to his own life.
When a church ministers its gifts as it should, at least four important blessings result -
1. Christians receive a great blessing.
2. When everyone does his part of the ministry in the church, it forms dynamic witness with the power and effectiveness that cannot be otherwise.
3. When the church minsters its gifts, God’s leadership becomes apparent.
4. A church that is faithful and uses its gifts in the spirit’s power, experiences a great joy of unity, love, and fellowship.
. . . And the world sees the power of God, and Christ will be glorified.
Where do spiritual gifts come from? They are all given by or in the manifestation of the divine trinity. The gifts are given by the same spirit. The ministries are assigned by the same Lord, and the effects are energized by the same God.
Manifestation is what spiritual gifts do. They make the Holy Spirit known, clear and evident in the church and in the world. Spiritual gifts were never given to be hidden or to be used privately. They were given for the common good. Spiritual gifts are to be edifying and helpful to the church and to God’s people, who He brings together in His name.
On the other hand, when we fail to minister with all our gifts, we hinder others in ministering theirs. A Christian, who does not exercise his spiritual gifts, cripples his own ministry and the ministry of others, to say nothing of forfeiting the blessings and reward that would have come to his own life.
When a church ministers its gifts as it should, at least four important blessings result -
1. Christians receive a great blessing.
2. When everyone does his part of the ministry in the church, it forms dynamic witness with the power and effectiveness that cannot be otherwise.
3. When the church minsters its gifts, God’s leadership becomes apparent.
4. A church that is faithful and uses its gifts in the spirit’s power, experiences a great joy of unity, love, and fellowship.
. . . And the world sees the power of God, and Christ will be glorified.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Variety of Effects
“And there are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.” I Cor 12:6
The word effect, (in Greek energema) literally means 'what is worked out or energized.' Just as spiritual gifts are given supernaturally, so they are energized supernaturally.
We may exercise our talents, skills, intelligence, and other natural abilities in our own power, but only the Giver of spiritual gifts can empower them and make them effective. Just as God gives no commands, but He gives the ability to obey. He does not give spiritual gifts for which He does not also give the power to use. A self-made Christian is a self-contradiction.
Like the gifts themselves, the energizing of spiritual gifts is sovereign based. The same gift may be used by the Lord in countless ways, in many varieties. God’s people and God’s gifts are like snowflakes, no two are exactly alike! The Corinthians were more interested in being successful, than in being submissive, and in being noticed and praised, than being obedient and faithful. They wanted each other’s gifts, but the truth of the matter is, no one can be you!
God has gifted you, and He wants you to fulfill the purpose He has made you for. Think of how much does not get done, simply because we will not use the gifts that God has given us. We get distracted by the evil one envying someone else’s gift and talents, when the truth is, you have your own. Question is, Do you know what they are, and are you using them for the glory of God?
The word effect, (in Greek energema) literally means 'what is worked out or energized.' Just as spiritual gifts are given supernaturally, so they are energized supernaturally.
We may exercise our talents, skills, intelligence, and other natural abilities in our own power, but only the Giver of spiritual gifts can empower them and make them effective. Just as God gives no commands, but He gives the ability to obey. He does not give spiritual gifts for which He does not also give the power to use. A self-made Christian is a self-contradiction.
Like the gifts themselves, the energizing of spiritual gifts is sovereign based. The same gift may be used by the Lord in countless ways, in many varieties. God’s people and God’s gifts are like snowflakes, no two are exactly alike! The Corinthians were more interested in being successful, than in being submissive, and in being noticed and praised, than being obedient and faithful. They wanted each other’s gifts, but the truth of the matter is, no one can be you!
God has gifted you, and He wants you to fulfill the purpose He has made you for. Think of how much does not get done, simply because we will not use the gifts that God has given us. We get distracted by the evil one envying someone else’s gift and talents, when the truth is, you have your own. Question is, Do you know what they are, and are you using them for the glory of God?
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Varieties of Ministries
“And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord.” I Cor 12:5
God gives His gift to be used in a variety of ministries. 'Ministry' is from the same basic Greek term ‘Diakonion’ which means to serve, servant, deacon - one who serves.
Speaking of Himself, Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...” Mark 10:45
Spiritual gifts are not given as badges of privilege, but as tools for ministry. The Lord gives them to His servants so they can serve. He gives them for a limitless variety of services. All gifts are for service, but the types of services are immeasurable. It is critical to understand that spiritual gifts are not given for self edification. Every gift is a helps gift because every gift is a service gift.
The purpose of my gift is service. Jesus says, “For even the Son of man came, not to be ministered unto but to minister” Mark 10:45
Spiritual gifts are not designed as special privileges for the one who has them. My spiritual gift is not for my edification. Now, I could pervert that, I could go into my office, study, write out all the things that I learned, preach a message into my tape recorder, and then turn it on and listen to it by myself. But that would prostitute my gift.
When anyone says, “I have this gift which I exercise only in private,” that is self-edification. I say, “Well, it isn’t a gift that the New Testament teaches, because the gifts are called service, that implies someone else is the object of your gift.”
When the Corinthians perverted the gifts of language for self-edification, it was the same as me going into my office and teaching myself. That is not the intention of the gift, that is the perversion to it. That is why Paul says regarding spiritual gifts, “...seek to abound for the edification of the church.” I Cor 14:12 That is the right intention.
A gift exercised in private is a perverted gift. God gives His gifts to us, but for others. We are personally blessed when we use our gifts in the spiritual power to serve others in His name. But that blessing is the by-product and not the purpose.
God gives His gift to be used in a variety of ministries. 'Ministry' is from the same basic Greek term ‘Diakonion’ which means to serve, servant, deacon - one who serves.
Speaking of Himself, Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...” Mark 10:45
Spiritual gifts are not given as badges of privilege, but as tools for ministry. The Lord gives them to His servants so they can serve. He gives them for a limitless variety of services. All gifts are for service, but the types of services are immeasurable. It is critical to understand that spiritual gifts are not given for self edification. Every gift is a helps gift because every gift is a service gift.
The purpose of my gift is service. Jesus says, “For even the Son of man came, not to be ministered unto but to minister” Mark 10:45
Spiritual gifts are not designed as special privileges for the one who has them. My spiritual gift is not for my edification. Now, I could pervert that, I could go into my office, study, write out all the things that I learned, preach a message into my tape recorder, and then turn it on and listen to it by myself. But that would prostitute my gift.
When anyone says, “I have this gift which I exercise only in private,” that is self-edification. I say, “Well, it isn’t a gift that the New Testament teaches, because the gifts are called service, that implies someone else is the object of your gift.”
When the Corinthians perverted the gifts of language for self-edification, it was the same as me going into my office and teaching myself. That is not the intention of the gift, that is the perversion to it. That is why Paul says regarding spiritual gifts, “...seek to abound for the edification of the church.” I Cor 14:12 That is the right intention.
A gift exercised in private is a perverted gift. God gives His gifts to us, but for others. We are personally blessed when we use our gifts in the spiritual power to serve others in His name. But that blessing is the by-product and not the purpose.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Varieties of Gifts
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. I Cor. 12:4
Paul explains that the spirit gives a variety of gifts to be used in a variety of ministries that have a variety of effects, but a common source and a common purpose. Notice that the word ‘variety’ is used three times, it literally means distributions, diversity or differences.
We are all different but we are one in Christ, having different gifts, but together in Christ we make one body. There is to be unity in diversity. It’s not that we all have the same gift, it’s not we all play the same position, it’s that we have a common Lord, a common purpose and goal and together we glorify Christ.
The word gift 'charisma’ means essentially the gift of grace or free gift. In sixteen of it’s seventeen New Testament usages, it is connected to God as the giver, referring to something given to us free!
‘Charisma’ is used seventeen times in the New Testament, eleven times it refers to spiritual gifts, the other times to salvation. Is salvation a free gift? Yes. Did you deserve it or earn it? No. Spiritual gifts are free gifts, undeserved and unearned, granted by God’s wonderful, loving, gracious kindness.
So, the first thing you learned about your capacity is that it is energized by the Holy Spirit. Second, it is a gift that you didn’t earn or deserve given to you purely as a result of God’s sovereign grace.
That gives me a sense of responsibility. When someone gives me a gift and says, “Would you care for this?” I’m going to care for it. I want to be a steward. I want to make sure it’s handled properly.
The Spirit graciously gives out those ‘grace gifts’ to all believers, so that each of us can say with Paul, “By the grace of God I am what I am.” I Cor 15:10a.
His grace was superabundant to me. The greatest mystery of my life, apart from God’s saving me, is that God called my into the ministry. Why? It was His choice, and I thank Him for it. Therefore it is absolutely essential to understand that spiritual gifts are special capacities bestowed on believers to equip them to minister supernaturally to others, especially to each other.
Paul explains that the spirit gives a variety of gifts to be used in a variety of ministries that have a variety of effects, but a common source and a common purpose. Notice that the word ‘variety’ is used three times, it literally means distributions, diversity or differences.
We are all different but we are one in Christ, having different gifts, but together in Christ we make one body. There is to be unity in diversity. It’s not that we all have the same gift, it’s not we all play the same position, it’s that we have a common Lord, a common purpose and goal and together we glorify Christ.
The word gift 'charisma’ means essentially the gift of grace or free gift. In sixteen of it’s seventeen New Testament usages, it is connected to God as the giver, referring to something given to us free!
‘Charisma’ is used seventeen times in the New Testament, eleven times it refers to spiritual gifts, the other times to salvation. Is salvation a free gift? Yes. Did you deserve it or earn it? No. Spiritual gifts are free gifts, undeserved and unearned, granted by God’s wonderful, loving, gracious kindness.
So, the first thing you learned about your capacity is that it is energized by the Holy Spirit. Second, it is a gift that you didn’t earn or deserve given to you purely as a result of God’s sovereign grace.
That gives me a sense of responsibility. When someone gives me a gift and says, “Would you care for this?” I’m going to care for it. I want to be a steward. I want to make sure it’s handled properly.
The Spirit graciously gives out those ‘grace gifts’ to all believers, so that each of us can say with Paul, “By the grace of God I am what I am.” I Cor 15:10a.
His grace was superabundant to me. The greatest mystery of my life, apart from God’s saving me, is that God called my into the ministry. Why? It was His choice, and I thank Him for it. Therefore it is absolutely essential to understand that spiritual gifts are special capacities bestowed on believers to equip them to minister supernaturally to others, especially to each other.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Exercising Your Gift
“...until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ.” Eph 4:13
What are the results of knowing and exercising your gift?
• You will understand you better.
• You will understand others better.
• You will be set free from guilt.
You were not called to do everything. Sometimes we try to do more than we should, and we can experience a burn out!
Knowing your gift helps you keep in perspective what God has gifted you to do.
• You will begin to recognize our interdependence on one another.
• It should eliminate any feelings of superiority or inferiority.
• We will see a unity in the Body.
• There will be a sense of fulfillment.
• There will be a sense of humbleness of spirit.
• There will be a greater love for the brethren.
Remember this thought - God didn’t give you the Holy Spirit for enjoyment, but for employment. He has gifted you with the gift He wants you to have and use. Thank God for the gifts and talents He has given you, and ask Him what ministries He wants you to be involved in.
What are the results of knowing and exercising your gift?
• You will understand you better.
• You will understand others better.
• You will be set free from guilt.
You were not called to do everything. Sometimes we try to do more than we should, and we can experience a burn out!
Knowing your gift helps you keep in perspective what God has gifted you to do.
• You will begin to recognize our interdependence on one another.
• It should eliminate any feelings of superiority or inferiority.
• We will see a unity in the Body.
• There will be a sense of fulfillment.
• There will be a sense of humbleness of spirit.
• There will be a greater love for the brethren.
Remember this thought - God didn’t give you the Holy Spirit for enjoyment, but for employment. He has gifted you with the gift He wants you to have and use. Thank God for the gifts and talents He has given you, and ask Him what ministries He wants you to be involved in.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A Little Fun with GOC
This is a promotional video we ran earlier this year for our Global Outreach Conference. I thought you could use a little humor this weekend.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Misunderstanding Gifts
“And since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let each exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith.” Romans 12:6
When we don’t understand the purpose or nature of spiritual gifts, we develop ‘wrong attitudes.’
Here are a few that seem to be common ~
Once I discover what my spiritual gift is, I am in a position to be mightily used of God.
Not necessarily so. Other factors affect your usefulness and effectiveness in ministering your gifts. Such as a spirit-filled life, study of the Word, commitment to God, and staying away from sinful practices.
Using my spiritual gift means I am spiritual.
Nice try, but the Corinthian believers exercised all the gifts, and were carnal. I Cor 1:7; 3:3
Once I discover my gift, I am no longer responsible to minister in other areas.
We are all responsible to minister in each area of the gifts by way of Christian duty and responsibility before God. There is a gift of prophecy, but all believers are exhorted to prophecy. I Cor 12:10; 14:1, 5, 24, 31, 39
God gave me a spiritual gift for my personal benefit and growth in the Lord.
A lot of people believe this, but it is not true! Gifts are given for the benefit of others in the body of Christ. I Cor 12:7; 14:12
Spiritual gifts cannot be used without the power and control of the Holy Spirit.
It sounds good, but again not true! The church in Corinth used all the gifts. I Cor 1:7 We will certainly be more effective when controlled by the spirit. The giving of the gifts is the work of the Holy Spirit, but the using of the gift is based on our responsibilities. This is a matter of deep concern for all of us! You can be ‘carnal,’ and still use your gift. You can obviously use them without love, though the results are obvious also. I Cor 13:1-3
This emphasis on spiritual gifts causes division and pride in the church, and therefore, should be avoided.
Unfortunately, this has been the case as it was in Corinth. However, we should not view the ‘gifts’ as causing the carnality and division, but rather the lack of love, and failure to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. The ‘gifts’ can be very effective in the growth of the church. I Cor 12; Eph 4:11-16
When we don’t understand the purpose or nature of spiritual gifts, we develop ‘wrong attitudes.’
Here are a few that seem to be common ~
Once I discover what my spiritual gift is, I am in a position to be mightily used of God.
Not necessarily so. Other factors affect your usefulness and effectiveness in ministering your gifts. Such as a spirit-filled life, study of the Word, commitment to God, and staying away from sinful practices.
Using my spiritual gift means I am spiritual.
Nice try, but the Corinthian believers exercised all the gifts, and were carnal. I Cor 1:7; 3:3
Once I discover my gift, I am no longer responsible to minister in other areas.
We are all responsible to minister in each area of the gifts by way of Christian duty and responsibility before God. There is a gift of prophecy, but all believers are exhorted to prophecy. I Cor 12:10; 14:1, 5, 24, 31, 39
God gave me a spiritual gift for my personal benefit and growth in the Lord.
A lot of people believe this, but it is not true! Gifts are given for the benefit of others in the body of Christ. I Cor 12:7; 14:12
Spiritual gifts cannot be used without the power and control of the Holy Spirit.
It sounds good, but again not true! The church in Corinth used all the gifts. I Cor 1:7 We will certainly be more effective when controlled by the spirit. The giving of the gifts is the work of the Holy Spirit, but the using of the gift is based on our responsibilities. This is a matter of deep concern for all of us! You can be ‘carnal,’ and still use your gift. You can obviously use them without love, though the results are obvious also. I Cor 13:1-3
This emphasis on spiritual gifts causes division and pride in the church, and therefore, should be avoided.
Unfortunately, this has been the case as it was in Corinth. However, we should not view the ‘gifts’ as causing the carnality and division, but rather the lack of love, and failure to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. The ‘gifts’ can be very effective in the growth of the church. I Cor 12; Eph 4:11-16
Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Nature of Gifts
But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills. I Cor 12:11
What is the true nature of spiritual gifts?
They are NOT the same as natural talents or abilities.
They are not the same as the ‘fruit’ of the Holy Spirit.
Singular - “Fruit”..........................Plural - “Gifts”
• Attitudes...............................Activities
• No Carnality.........................Carnality possible
• Affects yourself, primarily.....Affects others, primarily
• Main purpose-Control the flesh...Main purpose-Edify the body
• All believers can possess “Fruit”...All believers do not have the same gift, nor do they have all the gifts
• The result of being controlled by the spirit....The result of salvation and the sovereign distribution of the spirit
They are not evidence of spiritual maturity and growth.
They are not given to you because you pray or ask for them.
They are not acquired abilities or talents which the individual is able to produce.
They ARE the ‘Manifestation of the Spirit.’ I Cor 12:7
The are distributed by the Holy Spirit. I Cor 12:11,18; Hebrews 2:4
Every believer has at least one gift. I Cor 12:7; I Pet 4:10
They are the result of God’s grace. We do nothing to earn or deserve them. Rom 12:6
What is the true nature of spiritual gifts?
They are NOT the same as natural talents or abilities.
They are not the same as the ‘fruit’ of the Holy Spirit.
Singular - “Fruit”..........................Plural - “Gifts”
• Attitudes...............................Activities
• No Carnality.........................Carnality possible
• Affects yourself, primarily.....Affects others, primarily
• Main purpose-Control the flesh...Main purpose-Edify the body
• All believers can possess “Fruit”...All believers do not have the same gift, nor do they have all the gifts
• The result of being controlled by the spirit....The result of salvation and the sovereign distribution of the spirit
They are not evidence of spiritual maturity and growth.
They are not given to you because you pray or ask for them.
They are not acquired abilities or talents which the individual is able to produce.
They ARE the ‘Manifestation of the Spirit.’ I Cor 12:7
The are distributed by the Holy Spirit. I Cor 12:11,18; Hebrews 2:4
Every believer has at least one gift. I Cor 12:7; I Pet 4:10
They are the result of God’s grace. We do nothing to earn or deserve them. Rom 12:6
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
The Purpose of Gifts
But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. I Cor. 12:7
Here is where we have most of our problems today, because we abuse, mis-use or are ignorant of the Word and spiritual truths, we develop bad theology.
Which brings about strife, division, fears and mis-understandings.
Why? Because we do not understand the purpose for which God has given to us His spiritual gifts.
What is the purpose of spiritual gifts?
1. The equipping of the believers. Eph 4:11-12
2. The edification of the whole church. Eph 4:12; I Pet 4:10
3. The establishment of the believers. Rom 1:11
4. The encouragement of the believers. Rom 1:12
5. The effectiveness of the whole church. I Cor 12:7
6. The enlargement of the church. Eph 4:16
7. The exaltation of Jesus Christ. I Pet 4:11
Gifts have NEVER, NEVER been given for a person’s personal use, private use,
personal pleasure, or to boast about or get puffed up about.
All gifts have been given to us as a channel for Jesus to flow through, in order to build up and minister to His body. Everything Jesus did, He did for others and never Himself.
We are here for the Glory of God, not for ourselves. We are to serve one another, love one another and give ourselves away to one another for the Glory of God.
This thing of sitting in church and hearing sermons with no intention of serving or doing anything about them is unscriptural. We are here to worship God !!! So did Jesus, but He was always out there ministering to people. And you didn’t find Him hoarding His gifts to Himself!
Here is where we have most of our problems today, because we abuse, mis-use or are ignorant of the Word and spiritual truths, we develop bad theology.
Which brings about strife, division, fears and mis-understandings.
Why? Because we do not understand the purpose for which God has given to us His spiritual gifts.
What is the purpose of spiritual gifts?
1. The equipping of the believers. Eph 4:11-12
2. The edification of the whole church. Eph 4:12; I Pet 4:10
3. The establishment of the believers. Rom 1:11
4. The encouragement of the believers. Rom 1:12
5. The effectiveness of the whole church. I Cor 12:7
6. The enlargement of the church. Eph 4:16
7. The exaltation of Jesus Christ. I Pet 4:11
Gifts have NEVER, NEVER been given for a person’s personal use, private use,
personal pleasure, or to boast about or get puffed up about.
All gifts have been given to us as a channel for Jesus to flow through, in order to build up and minister to His body. Everything Jesus did, He did for others and never Himself.
We are here for the Glory of God, not for ourselves. We are to serve one another, love one another and give ourselves away to one another for the Glory of God.
This thing of sitting in church and hearing sermons with no intention of serving or doing anything about them is unscriptural. We are here to worship God !!! So did Jesus, but He was always out there ministering to people. And you didn’t find Him hoarding His gifts to Himself!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
What is a Spiritual Gift?
As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10
I think the best way to start is to first answer some questions about spiritual gifts. The first question is, “What is a spiritual gift?”
It is a God given capacity given to a believer, through which the Holy Spirit supernaturally expresses the person of Jesus Christ through us, to minister to the body.
> It was given to you at salvation, and it is something you did not possess before you were saved.
> It is not a talent. A talent was given to you at your physical birth. A spiritual gift was given to you at your second birth.
Both of them can be used by God, and mis-used by the person.
Our talents were not given to us necessarily to be the instrument by which we serve God. Our spiritual gifts on the other hand, were given to us for the expressed purpose of ministering to and building up the body of Christ.
The second question we need to understand is, “Does everybody have a gift, or several, or none? I Peter 4:10; I Corinthians 12:11
However talented or untalented you think you are, if you’re a born again believer, you have at least one spiritual gift. Our job is to discover what our gifts are, and then use them to minister to the body.
Do you know what your spiritual gift is? Are you using it to minister to the body, or are you sitting on it?!
Here's a thought - “Can you use your gift to minister to the body of Christ, if you’re not involved in His church?”
I think the best way to start is to first answer some questions about spiritual gifts. The first question is, “What is a spiritual gift?”
It is a God given capacity given to a believer, through which the Holy Spirit supernaturally expresses the person of Jesus Christ through us, to minister to the body.
> It was given to you at salvation, and it is something you did not possess before you were saved.
> It is not a talent. A talent was given to you at your physical birth. A spiritual gift was given to you at your second birth.
Both of them can be used by God, and mis-used by the person.
Our talents were not given to us necessarily to be the instrument by which we serve God. Our spiritual gifts on the other hand, were given to us for the expressed purpose of ministering to and building up the body of Christ.
The second question we need to understand is, “Does everybody have a gift, or several, or none? I Peter 4:10; I Corinthians 12:11
However talented or untalented you think you are, if you’re a born again believer, you have at least one spiritual gift. Our job is to discover what our gifts are, and then use them to minister to the body.
Do you know what your spiritual gift is? Are you using it to minister to the body, or are you sitting on it?!
Here's a thought - “Can you use your gift to minister to the body of Christ, if you’re not involved in His church?”
Monday, March 10, 2008
Spiritual Gifts
"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware." I Cor 12:1
One of the concerns of many Christians today is the subject of spiritual gifts. While the controversy about them seems to have quieted down in the last few years, the teaching, theology, and doctrinal error has not. I am always amazed how people can read the Bible and then teach and believe what they do.
When it comes to spiritual gifts, there are those who abuse them, and there are those who ignore them. We are in many ways a generation much like the Corinthians and when we study First Corinthians we must always keep in the back of our minds I Corinthians 3:3. This letter is a letter of correction, not praise. Three chapters are written to correct their poor doctrine, wrong teaching, and utter abuse of the gifts.
When you come to a passage like I Corinthians 12:14, you face two major problems; one bad theology or second, pre-conceived theology. There are many who are emotionally invested in what they think or want to believe.
The bottom line, we need to know what God's Word teaches, not what we think it says, or believe what we want to think it says. We need to lay our prejudice, pre-conceived ideas, and emotional hang-ups aside, and study the Word of God.
Lord, give me an understanding heart to know your Word.
One of the concerns of many Christians today is the subject of spiritual gifts. While the controversy about them seems to have quieted down in the last few years, the teaching, theology, and doctrinal error has not. I am always amazed how people can read the Bible and then teach and believe what they do.
When it comes to spiritual gifts, there are those who abuse them, and there are those who ignore them. We are in many ways a generation much like the Corinthians and when we study First Corinthians we must always keep in the back of our minds I Corinthians 3:3. This letter is a letter of correction, not praise. Three chapters are written to correct their poor doctrine, wrong teaching, and utter abuse of the gifts.
When you come to a passage like I Corinthians 12:14, you face two major problems; one bad theology or second, pre-conceived theology. There are many who are emotionally invested in what they think or want to believe.
The bottom line, we need to know what God's Word teaches, not what we think it says, or believe what we want to think it says. We need to lay our prejudice, pre-conceived ideas, and emotional hang-ups aside, and study the Word of God.
Lord, give me an understanding heart to know your Word.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
No Time
“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Col. 3:16
As we have talked about making the most of our time. This poem by Norma Dennison, written in 1968 says it pretty well...
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Did we take time to read the newspaper today?
How can we fill our mind with news so bad -
And leave our Bibles laying there unread?
When packed inside is such good news to relate -
And share with a friend our heavenly estate.
We must open their eyes to see our Christ that they reject -
And see in us a life that reflects,
A Christ that lives in us and reveilles a new birth -
And commissions us to walk daily with Him here on earth.
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Will we take time to eat three meals today?
But cannot spare time for spiritual things,
Miss the joy that His word brings.
Oh - let’s fill our souls with spiritual food -
And say, “Forgive us Lord for being so rude.”
Where can our sense of values be -
As we stay to busy to give “Thanks” to Thee?
Each day we live - is a gift from above -
We should express our appreciations and show our love -
And should not act as if we don’t understand -
And expect our God to meet all our demands.
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Will we find time to watch T.V. today?
A special show we’ll have to see -
And tune our minds in to everything but Thee.
No wonder we are so confused and dissatisfied -
When is our self-centeredness, our God we’ve denied.
If He seems to ignore us - how we grumble and complain -
as we follow the crowd and the devil’s campaign.
Let’s not covet His time, but use the hours more wisely instead -
And NOT leave our Bibles laying there unread.
As we have talked about making the most of our time. This poem by Norma Dennison, written in 1968 says it pretty well...
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Did we take time to read the newspaper today?
How can we fill our mind with news so bad -
And leave our Bibles laying there unread?
When packed inside is such good news to relate -
And share with a friend our heavenly estate.
We must open their eyes to see our Christ that they reject -
And see in us a life that reflects,
A Christ that lives in us and reveilles a new birth -
And commissions us to walk daily with Him here on earth.
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Will we take time to eat three meals today?
But cannot spare time for spiritual things,
Miss the joy that His word brings.
Oh - let’s fill our souls with spiritual food -
And say, “Forgive us Lord for being so rude.”
Where can our sense of values be -
As we stay to busy to give “Thanks” to Thee?
Each day we live - is a gift from above -
We should express our appreciations and show our love -
And should not act as if we don’t understand -
And expect our God to meet all our demands.
“No Time” we say to read our Bible and pray -
Will we find time to watch T.V. today?
A special show we’ll have to see -
And tune our minds in to everything but Thee.
No wonder we are so confused and dissatisfied -
When is our self-centeredness, our God we’ve denied.
If He seems to ignore us - how we grumble and complain -
as we follow the crowd and the devil’s campaign.
Let’s not covet His time, but use the hours more wisely instead -
And NOT leave our Bibles laying there unread.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Friday, March 7, 2008
Make Time
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity.” Col. 4:5
In the King James Version this verse is translated, “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.”
Here is the bottom line truth, every one of us has 365 days in a year, or 8,760 hours, or 525,600 minutes, or 31,536,000 seconds.
Anyway you want to slice it, we have the same amount of time to live life.
Now, the truth is some live longer than others, but the more pressing question is, “Are you living you life to the fullest, the way God intends for you to live?”
There are far to many who waste time, misuse, time, and throw away time,
rather than redeem the time. In this generation where everyone wants more time, let me encourage you to be a good steward of the time you have.
May I advise you to follow the suggestions I read in a church newsletter
that said:
Make time to think - it is the source of power.
Make time to play - it is the key to freedom and relaxation.
Make time to work - it is the price of success.
Make time to read - it is the gateway to knowledge.
Make time to worship - it washes the dust of the earth from our eyes.
Make time to help and enjoy friends - it is the road to happiness.
Make time to love - if you don’t, it will fade away.
Make time to dream - it is the hitching your wagon to a star.
Make time to laugh - it is the music of the soul.
Make time to pray - it will lighten life’s load.
Make time to be with God - it is life’s only lasting investment.
In the King James Version this verse is translated, “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.”
Here is the bottom line truth, every one of us has 365 days in a year, or 8,760 hours, or 525,600 minutes, or 31,536,000 seconds.
Anyway you want to slice it, we have the same amount of time to live life.
Now, the truth is some live longer than others, but the more pressing question is, “Are you living you life to the fullest, the way God intends for you to live?”
There are far to many who waste time, misuse, time, and throw away time,
rather than redeem the time. In this generation where everyone wants more time, let me encourage you to be a good steward of the time you have.
May I advise you to follow the suggestions I read in a church newsletter
that said:
Make time to think - it is the source of power.
Make time to play - it is the key to freedom and relaxation.
Make time to work - it is the price of success.
Make time to read - it is the gateway to knowledge.
Make time to worship - it washes the dust of the earth from our eyes.
Make time to help and enjoy friends - it is the road to happiness.
Make time to love - if you don’t, it will fade away.
Make time to dream - it is the hitching your wagon to a star.
Make time to laugh - it is the music of the soul.
Make time to pray - it will lighten life’s load.
Make time to be with God - it is life’s only lasting investment.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Time - Bank of Life
"...making the most of your time, because the days are evil."
Eph 5:16
If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $86,400, yet carried no balance from day to day, allowed you to keep no cash in your account, and finally every evening canceled whatever part of the amount you had failed to use during the day, what would you do? Draw out every cent, of course!
Well, you have such a bank and its name is "Time." Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it rules off - as lost- whatever of this you have failed to invest to good purpose. It carries no balances. It allows no overdrafts. Each day the bank named "Time" opens a new account for you. Each night it burns the records of the day. If you fail to use the day's deposits, the loss is yours. There is no going back. There is no drawing against tomorrow. You must live in the present - on today's deposits. Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness and success.
Someone has estimated that in the average life of seventy years, time would be used as follows:
3 years spent in education
8 years spent in entertainment
6 years at the dinner table
5 years in transportation
4 years in conversation
14 years in work
3 years in reading
24 years in sleeping
3 years in convalescing
Where are you investing your time?
I like what someone said, "The best minute I spend is the one I invest in people."
Go and do likewise.
Eph 5:16
If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $86,400, yet carried no balance from day to day, allowed you to keep no cash in your account, and finally every evening canceled whatever part of the amount you had failed to use during the day, what would you do? Draw out every cent, of course!
Well, you have such a bank and its name is "Time." Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds. Every night it rules off - as lost- whatever of this you have failed to invest to good purpose. It carries no balances. It allows no overdrafts. Each day the bank named "Time" opens a new account for you. Each night it burns the records of the day. If you fail to use the day's deposits, the loss is yours. There is no going back. There is no drawing against tomorrow. You must live in the present - on today's deposits. Invest it so as to get from it the utmost in health, happiness and success.
Someone has estimated that in the average life of seventy years, time would be used as follows:
3 years spent in education
8 years spent in entertainment
6 years at the dinner table
5 years in transportation
4 years in conversation
14 years in work
3 years in reading
24 years in sleeping
3 years in convalescing
Where are you investing your time?
I like what someone said, "The best minute I spend is the one I invest in people."
Go and do likewise.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
A Fourfold Transformation
“And ordering the multitudes to recline on the grass, He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food, and breaking the loaves He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave to the multitudes...” Matthew 14:19
Here in this passage is a wonderful truth of what the Lord does with each of us. Notice the four things He did: He took the bread, He blessed the bread, He broke the bread, and He gave the bread.
That’s exactly what He does with every believer. He takes us, as we are, in our lost and needy state, then He blesses us with love, forgiveness, and grace. He makes us His child and adopts us into the family. Then, He begins to break us, not to hurt us but to mold us, and shape us into His likeness, so that He can use us and give us away to bless others.
We all want to be used, but understand, we’re only usable to the degree that we’re willing to be broken! We all want to be blessed, but we seem to resist being broken. It’s an absolute necessity if you’re going to be used by God.
We must give Him the freedom to break us from old habits and desires that are not pleasing to Him, to mold us into His likeness.
Today, surrender to His love, and allow the Lord to mold you, bend you, and if need be, break you, so He can use you for His glory.
Here in this passage is a wonderful truth of what the Lord does with each of us. Notice the four things He did: He took the bread, He blessed the bread, He broke the bread, and He gave the bread.
That’s exactly what He does with every believer. He takes us, as we are, in our lost and needy state, then He blesses us with love, forgiveness, and grace. He makes us His child and adopts us into the family. Then, He begins to break us, not to hurt us but to mold us, and shape us into His likeness, so that He can use us and give us away to bless others.
We all want to be used, but understand, we’re only usable to the degree that we’re willing to be broken! We all want to be blessed, but we seem to resist being broken. It’s an absolute necessity if you’re going to be used by God.
We must give Him the freedom to break us from old habits and desires that are not pleasing to Him, to mold us into His likeness.
Today, surrender to His love, and allow the Lord to mold you, bend you, and if need be, break you, so He can use you for His glory.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
A Fish Story
“And they said to Him, ‘We have here only five loaves and two fish.’ And He said, ‘Bring them here to Me.’” Matthew 14:17-18
Do you only think of giving in terms of large and significant gifts? You may remember the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan that took place in April of 1981. During Reagan’s hospital stay, he received many gifts. The one he valued the most was a goldfish that arrived by mail in a water-filled bag. Ten year old Barney Bullard was honored that his gift of a “First Fish” was ultimately given a home in the Reagan’s White Bowl.
Another generous lad once showed up at an outdoor seminar held by the Son of God. The Bible records that there were five thousand men in attendance, but someone forgot to line up the food concessionaires. Up stepped a boy who volunteered his sack lunch of five loaves and two small fish. Jesus said “grace” and then miraculously super-sized a kid’s meal to provide enough food to satisfy thousands. Matt 14:19-21. When the feast was over, they picked up twelve overflowing baskets of leftovers. Talk about a young lad’s unforgettable day!
The miracle was a demonstration of one of Jesus’ seminar principles. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap...” Luke 6:38.
Remember that, though the giving of your time, talents, and treasure may seem paltry and insignificant, God can super-size it into monumental blessings that impact and benefit the lives of others.
Here’s the point: You don’t need a lot - just give Jesus what you have. He will take it, bless it, multiply it, use it, and you will get the blessing. Let me ask you, what do you have that you can give Him?
Do you only think of giving in terms of large and significant gifts? You may remember the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan that took place in April of 1981. During Reagan’s hospital stay, he received many gifts. The one he valued the most was a goldfish that arrived by mail in a water-filled bag. Ten year old Barney Bullard was honored that his gift of a “First Fish” was ultimately given a home in the Reagan’s White Bowl.
Another generous lad once showed up at an outdoor seminar held by the Son of God. The Bible records that there were five thousand men in attendance, but someone forgot to line up the food concessionaires. Up stepped a boy who volunteered his sack lunch of five loaves and two small fish. Jesus said “grace” and then miraculously super-sized a kid’s meal to provide enough food to satisfy thousands. Matt 14:19-21. When the feast was over, they picked up twelve overflowing baskets of leftovers. Talk about a young lad’s unforgettable day!
The miracle was a demonstration of one of Jesus’ seminar principles. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap...” Luke 6:38.
Remember that, though the giving of your time, talents, and treasure may seem paltry and insignificant, God can super-size it into monumental blessings that impact and benefit the lives of others.
Here’s the point: You don’t need a lot - just give Jesus what you have. He will take it, bless it, multiply it, use it, and you will get the blessing. Let me ask you, what do you have that you can give Him?
Monday, March 3, 2008
An Illustration of Stewardship
“And if you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?” Luke 16:12
Once upon a time there was a man who had nothing, and God gave him 10 apples. He gave him the first 3 apples to eat, He gave him the second 3 apples to trade for shelter from the sun and rain, He gave him the third 3 apples to trade for clothing to wear. And He gave him the last apple so that he might have something to give back to God to show his gratitude for the other nine.
The man ate the first 3 apples, he traded the second 3 for shelter from the sun and rain, he traded the third 3 for clothing to wear. Then he looked at the tenth apple, and it seemed bigger and juicer than all the rest. He knew that God had given him the tenth apple so that he might return it to Him out of gratitude for the other nine. But, the tenth apple looked bigger and juicer than the rest, and he reasoned that God had all the other apples in the world.
So the man ate the tenth apple and gave back to God the core. God has given you enough apples to supply your needs, plus one with which you may show your gratitude to Him.
The choice is yours, will you return to God the largest and juiciest of your apples, or only the core? The point is, God has given you His best, we need to give Him our best !
Once upon a time there was a man who had nothing, and God gave him 10 apples. He gave him the first 3 apples to eat, He gave him the second 3 apples to trade for shelter from the sun and rain, He gave him the third 3 apples to trade for clothing to wear. And He gave him the last apple so that he might have something to give back to God to show his gratitude for the other nine.
The man ate the first 3 apples, he traded the second 3 for shelter from the sun and rain, he traded the third 3 for clothing to wear. Then he looked at the tenth apple, and it seemed bigger and juicer than all the rest. He knew that God had given him the tenth apple so that he might return it to Him out of gratitude for the other nine. But, the tenth apple looked bigger and juicer than the rest, and he reasoned that God had all the other apples in the world.
So the man ate the tenth apple and gave back to God the core. God has given you enough apples to supply your needs, plus one with which you may show your gratitude to Him.
The choice is yours, will you return to God the largest and juiciest of your apples, or only the core? The point is, God has given you His best, we need to give Him our best !
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The Expectation of a Steward
“...it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.” I Cor 4:2
The Lord does not require that we be successful or that we be resourceful, but that we be faithful! He expects us to be; loyal, trustworthy, and dependable. I know this subject is hard to grasp, especially for some who think they have acquired all their wealth and possessions without the Lord’s help.
I heard of a Pastor who spoke on this topic one Sunday. Following the sermon one of his rich members invited him home for lunch. Following the meal they strolled through the beautiful gardens, looked at the massive barns, and viewed the rolling hills covered with cattle. The member turned to the Pastor and asked, “You mean to tell me that none of this is mine?” The Pastor simply said, “Ask me that question a hundred years from now!”
We are stewards of God. Not because we choose to be, but because God had made us stewards. God is Creator of all and He has placed us in charge. We are responsible and accountable to Him for everything He had entrusted to us. Our conduct reflects our stewardship commitment.
My heart tells me that we are far from what we could or should be. We would be absolutely amazed at what God would do if we would just get obedient. Today the question isn’t whether God has been faithful – It’s, “Am I being faithful?”
The Lord does not require that we be successful or that we be resourceful, but that we be faithful! He expects us to be; loyal, trustworthy, and dependable. I know this subject is hard to grasp, especially for some who think they have acquired all their wealth and possessions without the Lord’s help.
I heard of a Pastor who spoke on this topic one Sunday. Following the sermon one of his rich members invited him home for lunch. Following the meal they strolled through the beautiful gardens, looked at the massive barns, and viewed the rolling hills covered with cattle. The member turned to the Pastor and asked, “You mean to tell me that none of this is mine?” The Pastor simply said, “Ask me that question a hundred years from now!”
We are stewards of God. Not because we choose to be, but because God had made us stewards. God is Creator of all and He has placed us in charge. We are responsible and accountable to Him for everything He had entrusted to us. Our conduct reflects our stewardship commitment.
My heart tells me that we are far from what we could or should be. We would be absolutely amazed at what God would do if we would just get obedient. Today the question isn’t whether God has been faithful – It’s, “Am I being faithful?”
Saturday, March 1, 2008
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