The Importance of Gifts X

A couple of weeks ago we began our second discussion into the spiritual gifts that are given to born-again believers focusing on the list found in Romans 12:6-13.

"6 However, since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them properly: if prophecy, in proportion to ones faith; 7 if service, in the act of serving; or the one who teaches, in the act of teaching; 8 or the one who exhorts, in the work of exhortation; the one who gives, with generosity; the one who is in leadership, with diligence; the one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 Love must be free of hypocrisy. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality."

We began our discussion with a review of the gift of prophecy and how to identify if it is being used correctly. Today, we will be moving on to the gift of service. The idea of service is in a role of support or helping those who need it and this is a gift that can be used inside or outside of the church. For example, I know of a missionary who is not exactly on the "frontlines" their family is not out day by day preaching the gospel as many believe missionaries do. However, their family instead opens up their doors to other missionaries to provide them rest from the challenges that they face. Their home provides the missionaries a place of respite, this family is supporting others who have been called to preach the gospel. While not something that many would think of, this is a much needed act of service that allows the spread of the gospel.

A Biblical example of this gift is found in Acts 6:2-5.

"2 So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. 3 Instead, brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." 5 The announcement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch."

While the gift of service may not be one of the "flashy" gifts that we commonly think of, it is very much an important and needed spiritual gift. So while this gift might be one that is overlooked, ask yourself if there is an area in your church or in your community that you can serve in order to spread the gospel.

Seek the truth and encourage one another,

Alex