Introduction
In the opening of our discussion, we delve into the subtle and deceptive tactics employed by Satan as he approached Eve in the Garden of Eden. His first line of attack was to instill doubt about God's Word with the question, "Has God really said?" Following this, he offered her a seductive lie: the promise that she could become like God. This foundational deceit continues to echo through time, manifesting in various forms within the church today. We encounter extremes where some diminish the gifts of the Holy Spirit, asserting that they have ceased, while others elevate themselves by claiming spiritual superiority through these gifts. Both responses are rooted in the same lie that originated with the serpent. Today, I invite you to consider this as merely a starting point for our journey together, as we seek to understand the fullness of life in the Spirit and the adventure of serving our King.
Main Points
When We Think About The Indwelling
When we think about the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we must recognize that it was only after the purification that came through Christ's sacrifice on the cross that we could receive such a gift. Much like the process of canning vegetables where jars must be boiled for purification before new contents are added, the cross serves as God's method of preparing us to receive the Spirit.
- This act of purification is critical because it eliminates sin and prepares our hearts for the profound indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
- As we embrace this new identity, we also have a responsibility to be actively submerged in His presence.
- The imagery of pickling is a powerful one; just as cucumbers take on the flavor of their brine, we too must marinate in the Spirit to reflect His character and love.
- This submersion happens over time and results in spiritual maturity, serving as a reminder that we are not alone in our walk but are called to engage with fellow believers in this.
Turning Our Attention Now To The
Turning our attention now to the gifts of the Holy Spirit, I encourage you to open your Bibles to 1 Corinthians 12. In this passage, Paul specifically speaks of spiritual gifts and instructs us not to be ignorant of them.
- It's essential to recognize that the gifts are diverse yet unified under the same Spirit, all meant for the common good of the church body.
- These gifts include wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, and tongues, each manifesting uniquely within believers.
- The reality is that everyone has been given at least one of these gifts, and as such, we must take joy in serving one another through our unique callings.
- Unfortunately, many churches today either overemphasize or entirely dismiss these gifts, often failing to acknowledge their critical role in edifying the body and equipping believe.
Recognizing And Exercising These Gifts Within
Recognizing and exercising these gifts within the church ensures that we function correctly, leveraging our God-given abilities to foster community and spiritual growth. In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul emphasizes the significance of prophecy, urging believers to pursue love and desire spiritual gifts, especially that of prophecy. Prophecy serves two vital roles: it edifies the church and brings comfort and exhortation to believers. The concern that exists around prophetic messages often leads to misunderstandings and unwarranted dismissal of this essential gift. It's vital to nurture an environment where prophetic voices are welcomed, tested, and respected. In a time when many are seeking truth, clear counsel, and direction, the church must not shy away from this vital ministry.
Each Prophetic Word Should Be Weighed
Each prophetic word should be weighed carefully against Scripture, reaffirming the importance of discernment and a life led by the Spirit. We must encourage one another to engage in prayerfully seeking God's guidance as we speak and respond to His voice. The call to pursue the Holy Spirit's gifts also beckons us to operate within the power provided by the Holy Spirit. We should seek to foster an environment where the gifts flow freely, empowering the church to fulfill its mission. Many individuals feel an absence of power in their spiritual lives, not realizing that engaging actively with the Holy Spirit can transform both personal and corporate experiences. I encourage you to cultivate a longing for the fullness of the Holy Spirit in your life.
This Empowerment Is Not A Luxury
This empowerment is not a luxury but a necessity in today's world. As we seek to reflect God's love and advance His kingdom, we must lean into the power of the Spirit to guide our actions and words, reinforcing our collective witness and spiritual vitality. In our commitment to engaging with the Spirit, I want to discuss the concept of the "Afterglow", a time dedicated specifically to worship where we create space for believers to exercise their spiritual gifts. Historically, this was a vibrant aspect of early church life, encouraging participation and communion with God. This practice enhances our communal experience of worship, allowing us to edifyingly interact with God's Spirit. It fosters authentic community and faith expressions, wherein all members have the opportunity to share the gifts bestowed upon them.
It’s An Invitation To Come Together
It’s an invitation to come together, worship fervently, and serve each other in love.
Conclusion
As we conclude this exploration of spiritual gifts and the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and churches, I urge you to reflect on your own experiences. We are not merely passive recipients of God's grace but active participants in His kingdom work. Seeking and utilizing the gifts of the Holy Spirit is not just a foundational aspect of our faith; it’s an ongoing adventure that beckons us toward deeper communion with Him and one another. Let us be encouraged to embody the truth of God's promises and utilize the gifts He has generously given to us, propelling our church forward in unity and strength.