We know that God gives gifts of the Spirit to his followers. I wonder if because they’re called gifts and not commanded activities, and because they’re personal, we sometimes view them as optional. Maybe you feel blessed, content; you don’t need any more gifts. The problem is they’re not for you.
Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us that God gave the gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher. It doesn’t say He gave men these gifts, but that He gave gifted men as a gift to the church to build it up. Leaders are gifts from God to the church, equipping it for ministry. So how does the equipped church minister?
“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all.” (1 Cor 12:7) The church ministers by the gifts of the Spirit in individuals for others. They’re not optional for a true disciple because they’re not for us. We’re just God’s spiritual delivery men and women bringing desperately needed gifts. You carry someone’s gift from God. What an awesome privilege and responsibility.
Now here’s your homework. Personalize 1 Cor 14:1 and make it your prayer. By the way, the Greek word for “desire” in this verse is very strong. I don’t think you can want His gifts too much.
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