Sunday, June 28, 2009

Edifying the Church

"Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church."
1 Corinthians 14:12

The purpose of the spiritual gifts is to serve and build up the church (see 1 Cor. 12:7). The Corinthians, however, sought to promote themselves through the exercise spiritual gifts and, therefore, they sought what they believed to be the most impressive gifts (i.e. speaking in tongues). The desire to impress others and promote ourselves through Christian service is a contemporary temptation as well. It is good to be eager concerning spiritual gifts but let our eagerness be to discover and utilize the gift(s) God has given us to promote Christ and build up His church. Our attitude should be that of John the Baptist when he said, "He must become greater; I must become less" (John 3:30).

Father, keep me humble and appropriately eager to use the gifts and abilities that you have given me to glorify Jesus by building up His church.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark

1 comment:

  1. Good Morning Pastor Mark,
    Its still amazing to me how the Holy Spirit uses His word through the readings of First Light to correct, rebuke,and teach us like what Paul said in 2 timothy 3:16. I was just asking God to help me to sing better, and the impression I felt from the Holy Spirit was, "for whose edification or glory do you ask the request for". So, it made me check my motives and ask the Lord to correct me and help me to want to everything for His glory. And, lo and behold He gives me another word today to help me to be right in my word and deeds. Heavenly Father I thank you that you know that I am just flesh but you help me to live in the Spirit. Love in Christ Francie

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