Unleashing Our Gifts: Building God's Kingdom Together
Last Sunday, I concluded my sermon, reminding us that, as followers of Jesus, we are part of a new humanity, empowered by the Holy Spirit and uniquely gifted to serve. This isn't just an abstract concept; it's a call to action. A challenge to step into our purpose and contribute to the incredible work God is doing in and through our church.
Our Identity: Rooted in Christ
First, let's remember our core identity. In Christ, we find a belonging that transcends earthly labels. This identity is more profound than any race, culture, or political affiliation. It's the foundation upon which we build our lives and our service. It unites us in a common purpose: to reflect Christ's love to a world in need.
The Power Within: The Holy Spirit and Our Gifts
Each of us, as believers, has been given the Holy Spirit and a spiritual gift. This isn't just a historical concept from the early church; it's a present-day reality. 1 Peter 4:10 reminds us, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."
Discovering our gifts can be a journey. While spiritual gift tests can be a starting point, the most effective way to uncover our talents is often simply to begin serving. Find areas where you connect, where you feel a sense of purpose, and where you can contribute meaningfully.
Our Mission: Extending Christ's Triple Cure
Just as Jesus, our Prophet, Priest, and King, extends His "Triple Cure" to our souls, we, in turn, are called to share that cure with the world through our gifts. As we discussed, this takes many forms:
Prophetic Ministry: This involves speaking God's Word to people. Like Barnabas and Paul, some are called to teach and help us understand and apply the Gospel. Others, like Agabus, may deliver prophetic messages. But remember, encouragement is also a powerful form of prophetic ministry. Barnabas, "the man with the biggest heart," reminds us of the importance of uplifting others, recognizing God's grace in their lives, and speaking words of affirmation. You may never stand in a pulpit, but you can encourage someone today.
Priestly Ministry: This focuses on bringing people to God. As we see in Acts 11:21, all success in ministry and evangelism comes from God. Therefore, we must be committed to prayer, interceding for those we seek to reach. Barnabas, described as "a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith," exemplifies the character forged through prayer, a character that draws others to the Lord.
Kingly Ministry: This involves organizing our lives and our community under God's rule. The early church didn't just gather; they created a new way of life together. Barnabas urged them to "remain true to the Lord with all their hearts." This involves praying for sanctification, for the Spirit to break the chains of our old lives and empower us to live in a way that honors God. It also involves organizing ourselves for generosity, as we see in the response to the famine in Acts 11:29-30.
A Call to Action: Serving with Purpose
Our church's vision is clear: to reach lost people for Jesus. This requires a focused effort on outreach, evangelism, and the education of our children and youth. We cannot take these ministries for granted; they demand our intentional investment of time, talent, and resources.
This is where you come in. God has equipped each of you with unique gifts and talents, and our church needs them. We need teachers, evangelists, youth leaders, those with gifts of administration, hospitality, creativity—the list goes on.
Don't Wait, Participate!
I urge you to consider how you can contribute to our mission. Don't wait for someone else to step up. Don't let fear or insecurity hold you back. As the email we discussed emphasized, serving with a sense of purpose, fueled by gospel love, is a powerful force. This love is freely given, without any hidden agendas.
Remember, as Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). This2 is our example.
The Urgency of the Hour
We live in a world that desperately needs the hope and healing that only Jesus can provide. Our community needs us to be the hands and feet of Christ, extending His love and grace.
This is not a time for complacency. It's a time for action. It's a time for every member to play their part.
A Unified Vision: Moving Forward Together
A unified vision is crucial for maximizing our impact. By working together, with a clear focus and direction, we can channel our collective energy and talents to advance God's kingdom.
This is a call to every member of our church. Let's cultivate a spirit of unity, purpose, and service. Let's step out in faith, use our gifts, and build a church that truly reflects the heart of Christ.
The Heart of the Matter: God's Work in Us
In all our serving, let's never forget the core of our faith: what God has done for us. We can only offer hope and healing to others because Jesus is the true Prophet, Priest, and King, the source of our salvation.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To those who are already serving faithfully, thank you. Your dedication is an inspiration. To those who are considering how to get involved, I encourage you to take that step. Your contribution matters.
Let's move forward together, empowered by the Spirit, unified in purpose, and committed to making a difference in our church and our community.
With You;
Pastor TIm
