The Most Excellent Way

     Paul stresses unity in the church.  In 1 Corinthians 12-14 we have the famous discourse on how the Holy Spirit's gifts enable each church member to work out his unique calling into the life and ministry of the church, while acknowledging that the Lord is in control.
       
     "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men ( 12: 4-6).

     Paul speaks of the diversity of the church in areas of giftedness by saying that we don't all possess the same gifts:  "Are all apostles?  Are all prophets?  Are all teachers?  Do all work miracles?  Do all have the gifts of healing?  Do all speak in tongues?  Do all interpret?" (12: 29-30).

     But then Paul interrupts his teaching to pen a beautiful poem (I Cor. 13),  reminding us there is something we can all do.  Paul says this is the most excellent way to live.  Paul points that this characteristic insures unity with Christ and in the church.

     LOVE.

     The gifts of the Spirit must be exercised in light of the fruit of the Spirit.  Love is the first fruit by which the others (joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) grow.

     An attitude of love contributes more toward a church's success than does an aptitude for giftedness.

     God's blessings on your effort to the live the Sabbatical Life in following Christ's example to minister out of love,

Tim


Announcements

I'm so excited-- our first worship event will be this coming Saturday night at Trinity Worship Center.  We will begin with an Agape Meal at 6 pm, and then begin worship at 7 pm.  There will be a fun-themed worship time for children of all ages, that includes Bible study, music, and games!  You don't want to miss what God has in store for us!