1 Corinthians 12:4-27
Most of us look up to someone else whom we consider to be more talented than ourselves. We standardize their gifts and talents as the norm toward which all others should strive. But God has gifted you for a specific reason and for a specific task that requires your personal blend of giftedness. In this passage Paul addressed the Corinthian church, reminding the church of the value of each individual gift and person.
Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-12:
- Why does God give His children spiritual gifts?
- How does understanding your gifts help you embrace the role the Spirit has equipped you to fulfill?
- When you reflect on your spiritual gifts, what impact does it have on your relationship with God?
Read 1 Corinthians 12:13-20:
- What are some unique and different gifts you have recognized among our church body as a whole?
- How can these different functions in a church create unity?
- Where might our church be if each of us had the same gift or tried to function in the same role?
Read 1 Corinthians 12:21-27:
- Why do you think we are so tempted to compare our gifts or roles in the church to those of others?
- How does Paul emphasize the importance of community by describing the church as a body?
Taking it home:
- Given how crucial each member is, are there any roles in our church body that you feel tailor-made for?
- What are some practical ways that we can be better about embracing those who are suffering—and celebrate those who are being honored—within our church body?
Other Scriptures to Engage with this week:
Exodus 4:1-20 • Jonah 2-3 • Ephesians 4:1-16 • 1 Timothy 4:7-5:1 • 2 Timothy 1:5-14 • 1 Peter 4:7-5:5.