By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
Understand what spiritual gifts are.
Identify your personal calling and ministry.
Learn how to use your gifts effectively in the body of Christ.
Apply the principles of 1 Peter 4:10 in your life and ministry.
#1 What Are Spiritual Gifts?
Spiritual gifts are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to every believer for the purpose of building up the church and serving others. These are not natural talents, but supernatural endowments that empower believers to serve according to God’s purpose.
Key Scriptures:
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 – “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them…”
Romans 12:6-8 – “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us…”
Important Insight:
Spiritual gifts differ from natural talents. While talents may be inherited or developed through education and training, spiritual gifts are given at the moment of spiritual rebirth.
#2 Identifying Your Calling and Ministry
Every believer is called to a unique purpose in God’s Kingdom. Identifying your calling involves prayer, self-examination, and feedback from mature believers. Your gift(s) often point to your calling.
Reflective Questions:
What burdens or causes stir your heart deeply?
In what areas do others often affirm you?
What opportunities keep opening up for you?
Romans 11:29 – “For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.”
Examples of Callings:
Teaching
Evangelism
Mercy
Intercession
Administration
Helps/Service
#3 Using Your Gifts in the Body of Christ
The church functions like a body. Each member plays a unique role, and when every part functions properly, the church grows in unity and maturity.
Ephesians 4:11-12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service…”
Practical Ways to Use Your Gifts:
Join a ministry team (music, outreach, teaching, etc.)
Mentor or disciple others
Volunteer in areas where your gifts are needed
Support others through prayer, encouragement, or giving
Remember: No gift is too small. Even hospitality, encouragement, or giving is a mighty tool in the hands of God.
Memory Verse:
1 Peter 4:10 (NIV):
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
Key Application:
You are a steward, not an owner, of your gifts. Use them to bless others and glorify God.
Don’t wait for perfection. Start where you are with what you have.
Summary Points:
Spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for ministry.
Discovering your calling involves listening to the Holy Spirit and evaluating your passions and strengths.
Your gifts are to be used within the church for the benefit of all.
Every believer has a role to play in the body of Christ.
Closing Prayer:
“Father, thank You for the gifts You have placed in my life. Help me to discover, develop, and deploy them for the glory of Your name and the building of Your church. Lead me to my place in the body of Christ. Amen.”
Action Point
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