For the Common Good

In the passage, we looked at how Paul helps us to understand the heart of the gifts, not just the function of how they work. Pastor Stephen made 3 primary points about the heart of the gifts: 

1. Spiritual Gifts reveal God's grace. 

The term gifts in the passage means gifts of grace. These gifts are bestowed upon God's people out of the depth of God's love and grace for the church. Thus, the spiritual gifts that the Spirit gives show off God's heart for his people -- He is full of love and grace for us! 

2. Spiritual Gifts are given, not earned. 

By definition, gifts are not earned. This is the nature of God -- He is constantly giving of himself for the benifit of his people. We see this in creation, redemption, and every aspect of life with God! Which means that there is nothing we do to merit spiritual gifts! They are not for the spiritual elite, they are for those who have been purchased by the blood of the lamb. This roots out any pride or ego that may be in our heart is it relates to our own 'giftedness' and instead, cultivates a culture of humility, dependence and gratitude towards the giver! 

3. Spiritual Gifts promote unity in the body.

Though there are varieties of gifts, they all come from the same Spirit. That means, the diversity of gifts are singular in source and purpose -- to make much of Jesus and build up the body! When we are exercising the spiritual gifts, it's evidence that we are surrendered to the Holy Spirit, which produces love and generosity and unity in the body of Christ! Spiritual gifts remind us that it's about the glory of God and the good of others; it's not about me. 

Ultimately, the spiritual gifts point to the reality that the Holy Spirit manifests himself in the church, enabling us to love, serve, and care for one another! Let's continue to eagerly desire the presence of God, the Holy Spirit!