Scripture References: Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, 27; Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:11-13
Intro: Welcome to this sermon in our Acts series. Acts shows the Holy Spirit empowering ordinary believers for God's mission (Acts 1:8). Key to this empowerment are the Gifts of the Spirit. Paul urged believers not to be ignorant about these gifts (1 Cor 12:1). Like unwrapping a gift, we want to understand what God gives us. We believe these gifts continue today, equipping the church for its mission based on Scripture.
Key Points:
- Purpose of the Gifts: Why does the Spirit give gifts?
- Signs & Wonders: They point beyond the individual to God, revealing His character (power, compassion) and causing wonder. They testify that God is alive and active.
- Common Good (1 Cor 12:7): Gifts are given to build up the church body and advance God's mission together.
- Recipients of the Gifts: Who gets them?
- Every Believer (1 Cor 12:7): "To each one" a manifestation is given. All believers are gifted.
- Varied Measures (Rom 12:3, 6): Gifts operate with different measures of faith and strength. Don't compare or disqualify yourself; use what God gives you.
- Beyond Specific Gifting: We're all called to basic service, evangelism, etc., even outside our primary gifting.
- Growing in Gifts: How do gifts develop?
- Divine Source, Human Stewardship: God gives the gifts, but we must actively cultivate them.
- Eagerly Desire (1 Cor 14:1): Don't be passive; actively desire spiritual gifts and pursue growth.
- Use Them (1 Tim 4:14): Don't neglect or despise the gifts God has given, even in small beginnings.
- Diversity of Gifts (1 Cor 12; Rom 12): Paul lists various gifts, emphasizing diversity from the same Spirit/God. Examples include:
- Spirit Manifestations (1 Cor 12 - often situational): Wisdom, knowledge, faith, healings, miracles, discernment, prophecy, tongues, interpretation.
- Motivational/Functional Gifts (Rom 12): Prophecy (insight), serving, teaching, exhortation (encouraging), giving, leading, mercy. (These lists aren't exhaustive, but show variety).
- Unity in Diversity (1 Cor 12): Like parts of a body, diverse gifts are essential for the health and function of the church. We need each other and must appreciate, not compete with, different giftings.
Conclusion: The Holy Spirit equips every believer with gifts – manifestations of His grace – to serve others, build the church, and participate in God's mission. They are diverse, vital, and meant to point people to Jesus. We shouldn't be ignorant, passive, or dismissive of them.
Call to Action: Eagerly desire the Spirit's gifts. Ask God to reveal or confirm how He has uniquely gifted you. Seek opportunities to use your gifts for the common good. Appreciate the diverse gifts in others. Pray for the activation and fanning into flame of the Spirit's gifts within our church for God's glory and His mission.
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