Discovery: Paul continues in his teaching regarding public worship. In today's passage we see him addressing the issues of spiritual gifts. In my sermon this week, I discussed how the focus can either be too narcissistic (what are my spiritual gifts?) or too judgmental towards others (Are people who speak in tongues being unbiblical?). The key verse in this passage is verse 7, "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good."
I was really struck by Craig L Blomberg's commentary on this section (The NIV Application Commentary). He said, "... a talent or ability becomes a charisma only when it is used by a believer for the "common good."
Application: I know that I can be very narcissistic as well as overly judgmental towards others when it comes to spiritual gifts. Especially early on in my Christian life, I enjoyed taking the spiritual gifts inventory because it gave me a sense of worth and value because I could quantify my spiritual gifts. At the same time, I can also be very critical and judgmental towards those who I see as legalistic or self-righteous when it comes to the exercising of spiritual gifts. My error is the same error that I preached on Sunday. I can either be too focused on myself or too focused on other people's behaviors.
I am really challenged by this notion that spiritual gifts are meant for the common good of the Body of Christ. I am challenged to check my ego at the door every Monday when I come to the office to begin a new ministry week. I am not here at church to feed my ego or self-esteem. My desire is to serve the church for the common good of everyone here. I need to exercise my gifts (and responsibilities) as a pastor for the common good for leading this church toward maturity: Christ-likeness. At the same time, I also need to repent and turn away from the natural temptation to judge others and to not let that be a distraction from the work that God has called me to here at MVCCC.
Prayer: Lord, help me think of the health of this church before my own desires. Lead me to make small but significant choices this week to build up Your church.
