Called to Serve – Gifted to Serve
One of my favorite images of the church is that which is given to us by the Apostle Paul in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12. It is the image of the church as one body comprised of many members with each member gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve the body (1 Cor. 12:7). Paul is quick to emphasize that each member is vital to the health of the body and that each gift is due to the gracious work of God’s Spirit.
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone (1 Cor. 12:4-6).
The Apostle Peter likewise instructs us: As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace (1 Peter 4:10). Peter’s point is that God graciously gifts us in varied ways and it is our responsibility to put those gifts to use for the good of one another. The implication of all this is that every member of every local church who is a genuine Christian has been given a gift with which to serve and help build up that body of believers. Is that you? How have you been gifted to serve?
This month at Christ Church NYC we will be taking some extra time during our monthly church lunch on May 20 to give thanks for the many ministry volunteers who generously and sacrificially serve in and through our church. From the staff and leadership of the church to the many volunteers, thank you. It is my joy to serve with you for the sake of the gospel of the Lord Jesus, who himself came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).
In the service of our Lord,
Keith
View our May Newsletter.