Ephesians 4: 1-16

Unity in the Body of Christ

The gifts God has given to us are meant to be given away for the benefit of others.

What is your gift?

Our pastor’s son delivered a message last year that included some of what is contained in this passage. He expanded on it to make it very personal and practical. I will summarize it to the best of my ability, for I believe it is worth contemplating.

Ephesians 4 states: “It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up…”

1 Corinthians 12:12 speaks of finding clarity regarding God’s design for us, and 12:18 tells us our placement in the body is from and by God.

Romans 12:6 summarize once again these expressions of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts:

Prophecy

Service- always seeking needs

Teaching- Helping people understand biblical truth

Exhortation- Encourager, someone who builds up others

Giving- Giving freely to others to bring glory to God without recognition

Leader- Organizer of people, with a focus on God’s plan

Mercy- compassion, kindness, empathy-drawn to the hurting

Because you are a teacher does not automatically mean teaching is your gift. How then do we identify our God given gifts? We must first learn more about what these gifts are as noted above. We must ask God for guidance and inspiration as to his intended role for us, and we should ask others. We may be surprised at the response we get, but if we search deep within us and reach out for clarity, it will be revealed. The better we understand God’s design for us, the better we can fulfill it. What IS your gift?

Read/Listen to Ephesians 4: 1-16