ENGAGED

VOLUME 2 ISSUE # 7

...In Favor
WEEKLY ENGAGEMENT: 2.13.11 1 CORINTHIANS 12:7

But the
manifestation of Luke 19:13
the Spirit is given to
each one for the
profit of all:
1 Corinthians 12:7
“What’s in it for me?” That is the
usual question for anyone who Day 1
considers engaging in a process of
But the manifestation of the Spirit - The word "manifestation" Personal
interaction with others. It is the
implies to make something plain or known. Behavior reveals and
ver y “human” response ...self-
makes known the heart; actions make plain the real feelings. So
centered as it is. When one then, the Spirit gives gifts to believers that will result in the revelation of the
becomes a part of the Body of work of the Spirit. Everything the Spirit produces in the heart/mind of a
Christ, however, a change begins believer is a manifestation of the Spirit’s character and work, in the same
from within that alters that thinking. way as the works of God in the visible creation are a manifestation of his
We begin to understand that it is perfections.  How does God use you to reveal Himself to the World?
not all about “me!” What a blow to
our humanity! But then, our Relational
humanity is fallen and depraved. This is a classic verse showing us the value of relationships within
the Christian community. What does this verse say is the source of
In keeping with this new thinking, we the good we can do for the Body of Christ? How is this Spirit
must come to understand that empowerment different than just the altruistic (selflessness for the good of
spiritual gifts are not about us, they another) motive of general kindness by an unbeliever?
are about the Body. As we continue Generational
our process of learning about Pastors are not Super Heroes! As stated last week, Pastors are
spiritual gifts, we must accept the the same as any other person. Every member of the Body of Christ
truth that our exercise of these gifts has been given a spiritual gift.  That is an evidence of the Spirit’s working in
is for the benefit of all who are in his life.
the Body of Christ. That reflects As  a  family,  discuss  what  you  feel  you  are  discovering  as  your  spiritual  
our mission. gi8s.
24/7 faith Relational Faith Generational Faith

A 24/7 faith is the only faith that is authentic. It
is unselfish and God-centered. This type of
faith is personal and real. It is not produced by
community, but community enhances it. This
section is for the individual believer.
Relationships define who we are. God has
placed us in community with others with whom
we must relate. Whether it is marriage,
employment, social, civic, worship, etc., we must
learn to relate to others as Christ.
God expects us to pass on our faith to the
next generation. Scripture is full of commands
to leave a legacy of faith. However, it is not for
the faint of heart. This section will provide
fodder for you to talk about faith at home...
 Day 2 Personal
Is given to every man – This is
one case where ‘every’ does not
mean ‘every’.  Let me explain:  this
idea is that the manifestation of the Spirit is
given to all men.  However, the truth is, the
manifestation of the Spirit is given only to
Believers.   “I will put My Spirit within you
and cause you to walk in My statutes, and
you will keep My judgments and do
them.” (Ezekiel 36:27)    The Spirit of God
gives to each Christian such graces and gifts
as He pleases. He distributes these gifts to
all, not equally, but in a way which He
chooses and why… that all Christians
should use his gifts for the common good.  as will best serve the interests of the
So then, every Believer receives a gifting
from the Holy Spirit. Is it fair then, to want
certain gifts from the Holy Spirit?  Is it right
Day 3
Personal
For the common good -  Here are a few takeaways for
that is, for utility, or use; or
to be an advantage to the
church; for the common good
of all in the Body of Christ. This does not
mean that each one must cultivate and
improve his graces and gifts, however
true that may be, but that they are to be
used for the common good of the
church; they are given "for utility" or
"profit;" they are given in such degree
and in such a manner as are best adapted
to be useful, and to do good. They are
given not on all equally, but in such a way
church and His Kingdom.  Your gift(s) are
given for the common good of the
Church.   How are you using your gift? 
Day 4
Personal
the week: The Spirit gives
the gifts as He pleases. The purpose
is to promote common welfare in the
Body. No Christian should count
themselves as better than any other,
since the gifting is of God. No
Christian should be disheartened by
their gifting, since the gifting is of God.
Christians should be content with
their contribution to the welfare of the
Church. Christians should do their
best to hone their ability to minister
for the common edification and
advancement of the Kingdom of Christ
on earth.

to desire any gifts other than the ones the What is your gift to the body? Write any follow-up decisions,
Spirit has given?  Is it proper to covet/envy takeaways or applications for your life.
others gifting? Relational
As a valuable member of our Notice that this verse says Relational
Relational
Christian community, you have a your spiritual gifts are for
Do you feel as though you
contribution to make. Today, the common good. They
have been passed over in the are for your blessing, or
receiving of a Spiritual gift? begin to think of ways you can serve
spiritual “rush.” In fact, we are not even
Notice that, if you are a Believer, you fall others. It may be a small or large way. to think of pleasing ourselves. Compare
But today, the key is to begin to change
into the category of the “each one” this the way you think of interacting with this verse to 1 Cor. 10:24, and Rom.
verse talks about. So begin to realize your family of faith...so, start today! 14:19. This stresses being given a
today, if you never have before, that God spiritual gift to serve others rather than
Generational
intends for you to be valuable to your to exalt ourselves! Today, make it your
God’s various gifts are handed goal to love your brothers and sisters in
Christian community. out everywhere, but they all
Generational Christ more than yourself. It is only by
originate in God’s Spirit.   God’s doing this that the body of Christ
Spiritual gifts are called various ministries are carried out becomes complete.
“Spiritual” because they everywhere, but they all originate in Generational
come from the Spirit of God.   In his God’s Spirit.   God’s various expressions All gifts are intended to build
letters, Paul provided three lists of of power are in action everywhere, but up the members of the
spiritual gifts (also see Romans 12:3-8; God Himself is behind it all.  Each person Christian community  (Read 1 Peter
Ephesians 4:11). As a family read these is given something to do that shows who 4:10-11). As a family, discuss how you
God is. (The Message)
passages and discuss these gifts. will serve others this week.

Day 5 A talented organist, in the days before motor-driven or electric organs, gave a very magnificent concert in
which the big pipes sent forth glorious, thunderous tones. After people finished congratulating him, the little
boy who had worked with all his might at the bellows remarked, "We did pretty well, don't you think?"  The
organist scornfully replied, "And what did you do?" He gave the boy no credit at all.  A month later, during
another concert, the organist came to a stormy passage that required all the wind of which the bellows
were capable. Suddenly the organ began to fade away. The organist signaled for more wind. Instead, the little
lad pulled aside the curtain and said, "Is it I or is it we?"

What benefit do you receive from giving yourself away to others in Jesus’ name? What is the “common
good” our weekly verse is talking about? What does the common good look like when it is achieved? Are
we achieving the “common good” in our church?

Spiritual gifts are not to be used for selfish advantage, as some in the Corinthian community
apparently were doing.
As a family, talk about selfishness and how it not only hurts, but how it can hurt others.

NEXT WEEK: Romans 12:6-8