Was Socrates right when he said, "Know thyself?" It was human philosophy speaking but here Paul gave us the same principle from a Christian standpoint. Any ability a believer may have came from God Himself. Like any gift, we did not earn it, therefore we cannot boast about it. However that ability is given to us to use for Christ's sake and the church. It is never intended for the glory of the person to whom it has been given. Paul used the analogy of the human body to set out the doctrine of gifts (v.4). Just as every part of our body has a definite function, every believer has a definite work in the body of Christ. In a human body, there is tremendous diversity. It is the same in the church. In the human body, there is a wonderful unity with each part working together. It should be the same in the church, too. If our gift or our ability is God-chosen and God-given, where does jealousy fit in? Every member and every gift is important. Be thankful for the gifts others have. Through the many gifts He has given to each believer, the work of the church is carried on by the Spirit of God. How do you discover your gift? Think through what you like to do for the Lord. You may discover your gift more quickly than you think. Paul added, "Always use your gift humbly and enthusiastically. If you are a teacher, put your heart into it. If you are an encourager, do it often. Do everything heartily as unto the Lord." That's a good principle to remember always. |
沒有留言:
張貼留言