Spiritual Gifts

Pastor Kent Landhuis 

THEME - We demonstrate the unity of the Spirit by using our spiritual gifts to build up the body.

TEXT - Ephesians 4:11-16

1. America has always been divided. 

* Ephesians 4:14

* Matthew 12:25

2. Why are we (Christians) not more united?

* Ephesians 4:1-6

* 1 Corinthians 12:1

3. The Spirit brings unity.

* Ephesians 4:13

* 1 Corinthians 12:12-3

4. We demonstrate unity by using our gifts.

* Ephesians 4:11-12

* 1 Corinthians 12:7,27

NEXT STEPS

1. Discover your gifts. (Learn by doing.)

2. Use your gifts. (Grow the body.) 

3. Don’t make excuses. (We need everybody.)

REFLECTION: Gift-Based Ministry

At Cedar Hills, our ministry is shaped by the spiritual gifts, personalities, and passions of our congregation. “The right person, in the right place, at the right time” is the essence of this approach. 

Prayerfully consider what this means for you! 

·        Gift-based ministry requires reliance on the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gives gifts to build up the body. It is God’s job to give gifts. It is our job to use our gifts as the Spirit leads us.

·        Gift-based ministry calls for interdependence with each other. Interdependency values others, seeing one another as equally important. One body, many parts, and each part essential. 

·        Gift-based ministry promotes authenticity. Recognizing God-given gifts, we celebrate how each person is uniquely wired to be a valued part of the body. 

·        Gift-based ministry energizes the community. Serving according to our gift, passion, and personality gives life. (This also limits the burnout of people who grow weary and give up because they are serving in the wrong place.)

·        Gift-based ministry is creative, flexible, and fun. We never know what God will do next but we know that God will provide the right person, in the right place, at the right time! 

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

1 Corinthians 12:27