Discipleship Requires Your Gifts

Do you ever find yourself playing the comparison game? I do. When I hear someone’s persuasive preaching or read someone’s brilliant writing, the door to envy swings wide open. As human beings we are prone to this unhealthy desire because of indwelling sin. And yes, jealousy and comparison are even issues within the church. But Paul’s word to the Corinthians about gifts, diversity, and unity (1 Cor 12) is a helpful corrective to our tendency toward envy. Paul reminds us that all the gifts are needed!

A Variety of Gifts for the Common Good

In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Paul says that there are varieties of “gifts” (v. 4), “ministries” (v. 5), and “activities” (v. 6); but it is the same God who works through individuals (v. 11). Diversity of gifts originates from a single Source. An understanding that spiritual gifts are given by God helps us appreciate our own gifts, leads to a rich understanding of diversity in the church, and encourages us to value the gifts of others. Every gift that God gives is for the “common good” of his people (v. 7).

Unity and Diversity

To illustrate this concept, Paul uses a body metaphor (vv. 12-31). A body has different parts, and each plays an indispensable role (see also Romans 12:4-5). Every member is critical for a flourishing church (vv. 20-24). So, what does all of this mean practically? Well, if your gift is teaching, find opportunities to instruct people in God’s Word. If your gift is evangelism, faithfully share the gospel. If your gift is encouragement, find ways to speak into the lives of others. Do you have the gift of generosity? Share liberally.

A church where everyone is using their gifts is more effective at making disciples. So often we view discipleship in a very one-dimensional way. It must look like a one-on-one conversation, or it must take place in a group setting. But this is a very narrow way of thinking about ministry. Effective discipleship requires everyone in the church to be using the gifts God gives. I know those who have a clear gift of teaching. When they explain the Scriptures in a public setting it is infectious. Those who have the gift of evangelism can naturally weave faith into any conversation. Others are better equipped for showing hospitality or extending mercy. Rather than viewing discipleship through a very rigid paradigm, we should discern how God has gifted us so that we can faithfully use those gifts for the building up of the church and for the glory of God (1 Peter 4:10-11).

So, how do you determine your spiritual gift/s? There are four steps that I would encourage you to take:

• Learn: Read through the passages about spiritual gifts (Romans 12:1-8; 1 Corinthians 12-14; Ephesians 4:1-16; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
• Discover: Take the Spiritual Gifts Survey.
• Pray: Ask God to help you discern the results.
• Connect: Meet with a pastor or group leader to talk through your results.

So, discover your gift, and put it to work!