1 Corinthians 12:4 — Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit;

Football teams have over 50 players on the roster. These players are not all the same position. In fact, there are offensive players, defensive players, and special teams players. Within these three units, there are many different positions. Each specific position requires a certain amount of size and speed in order to be successful. If a team only had quarterbacks, they would never win a game. If a team only had kickers, they’d never win. If they only had one of any type of player, they would get destroyed. 

Great teams are made up of individual players who are uniquely fitted to fulfill their specific role for the success of the team. This is also true of how the church can fulfill its mission in the world. The Bible speaks about the church as consisting of many different members of the body. Each member of the body has unique gifts that mark them, and each of those gifts are tailored to contribute to the local church’s mission. 

In our passage today, we see Paul outline this idea. In 1 Corinthians 12:4 he says, “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.” There are varieties of gifts. Churches do no look the same. Individual Christians are not gifted the same. Some folks are leaders. Others have gifts for teaching. Some in the church are particularly suited for administration, hospitality, discernment and wisdom, and many other gifts. These gifts need each other. There are a variety.

But the same Spirit is in each believer to execute the function of that gift. The Holy Spirit dwells in believers who come together as a local body of believers. The church runs after its task of making disciples of all the nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey Christ. The gifts we have contribute to that unique mission. 

Do you know what your spiritual gifts are? Are you using them to glorify Christ and to build His church? This is not an option for Christians. If we belong to Jesus, we join His mission through the church and contribute our gifts to the advancement of His name.

Reflection & Journal: 

- What are your spiritual gifts?

- How have you experienced God using your gifts in the lives of others?

- Why is it important to remember that we have the same Holy Spirit dwelling in us as others? 

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