The Importance of the Body - Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Показать описание

1 Corinthians 12 notes a shift in Paul’s writing to the church at Corinth. While the first 11 chapters of the book are focusing on the dangers of worldliness within the church, he knows moves on to the importance of spirituality within the church. He is giving clear statements as to what the church at Corinth should be doing.

1. He is the giver of gifts
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
• “dumb” refers to the idols and “gods” who could not inspire nor speak
• Paul begins this section with a clear statement on the indwelling of the Holy Spirit power within all believers
• He further explains how the Holy Spirit moves us to action through gifts
• The important takeaway from the first 11 verses is that all receive gifts, just not necessarily the same gifts (Romans 12:3-8)
• Paul lists 9 specific gifts here (others found in Romans 12) which are: word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, different kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues.
• In Romans 12 we find: mercy, prophecy, teaching, giving, serving, leadership, administration.

2. Focus on unity
1 Cor. 12:12-27
• Paul clearly states the importance of EVERYONE within the body of Christ
• While gifts differ, the value of each doing their part is what makes the body work properly
• When the body is not functioning correctly, every part suffers
• Richard Pratt states, “Without exception every person who has trusted Christ receives a place in the body of Christ.”
• While the body of Christ might display its differences, we must embrace our dependence on one another

3. Let’s work together
1 Cor. 12:28-31
• Paul once again encourages the church at Corinth to do their part

Action Points:

1. Get acquainted with the Spirit
o This begins with our salvation experience
o However, it is cultivated through our spiritual growth
o It can be thwarted through choosing sin, through disobedience and through neglect

2. Find and develop your spiritual gift
o Seek out your spiritual gift (i.e. tests, friends, mentors)
o The best way to find and develop your spiritual gift is to start doing something

3. Get to work!

- Timeline
0:00 Welcome to Thomas Road
2:45 Worship
34:00 Sermon
1:14:00 Invitation

#1corinthians #churchonline #repeatinghistory