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Series: Growing with the Lord

Action File

Body Ministry

The Body of Christ works through a distribution of ministry gifts, not just amongst a "spiritual elite", but amongst all its members (1 Corinthians 12:7-11). Gifts of healing are in the Body. Words of wisdom and knowledge re in the Body. Discernment, prophecy, miracles - they are all in teh Body. Just waiting to be released. Only as we all begin to operate in these gifts do we see the whole "manifestation of the Spirit" to the world.

You have a wonderful part to play  in this schem designed by God. This is how it works:

1. Step Out

The gifts involve a step of faith, bu the Body of christ is ther to surround us with love and encouragment. Prophecy is one area we can all move into - bringing "strengthening, encouragement and comfort" to the rest of the Body (1 Corinthians 14:3,31).

2. Beware of "super-spirituality"

Pride is a tgrap we can all fall into. Leadership in teh Body is there for our protection and training (Ephesians 4:11-13). We are encouraged to "eagerly desire" the figts of the Spirit, but to use them in love (1 Corinthians 13:1-3; 14:1).

3. Wait on the Lord for the gifts

Spend some time waiting on the Lord before each meeting. This is the secret to all ministry.

4. Press in

Once you begin operating in the gifts of the Spirit, step out consistently. This is the only way to develop maturity in the operation of the gifts.

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