Over the past year and a half church has taken on many different forms. From livestream only, to signing up for one of our four services, social distancing, and more, it has certainly been a strange way of gathering on Sunday mornings.

Many of our ministries have also been on hold for this time as well. This break has meant a time away from serving for many in the church. As we consider ministries beginning again in September, let’s consider as well the gifts the Lord has given each of us and the call to be using our gifts in the church.

The Lord has equipped each believer with gifts, and we are to use them. Spiritual gifts are abilities that have been given to the believer by God. The believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit to use these gifts in ministry in the church.

The Bible provides us with lists of spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12; 1 Pet. 4; Rom. 12). Two categories of gifts we see from Peter are gifts of (1) speaking and gifts of (2) serving (1 Pet. 4:11).

When spiritual gifts are addressed in the Bible a few things become quite clear. Every believer has spiritual gifts, our gifts are different from others’ gifts, and we are to be actively using our gifts.

Spiritual gifts are not reserved for “super saints.” There is no level of spirituality that must be reached to earn your spiritual gift. It is clear that every believer has received spiritual gifts (1 Pet. 4:10, 1 Cor. 12:7, Rom. 12:3).

These gifts are given to us by God as a gift of His grace. They are varied and not all the same. We should not be comparing gifts and wondering why we have one gift and someone else has another. God has gifted each of us in different ways so that as Paul writes, “If all were a single member, where would the body be” (1 Cor 12:19).

The gifts that we have are to be used “for the common good.” (1 Cor. 12:7). Peter says, “As each have received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1 Pet. 4:10).

God intends that we serve others and build each other up by using our gifts. They are not meant for us to hold back.

Paul uses the analogy of the body to help us see the need for every believer and their gifts playing a part in the work of ministry. Our gifts can be used in a variety of ways.

Some have the gift of teaching and will proclaim the gospel in their lessons and sermons. Others have the gift of helping and serving others and will encourage members of the body by bringing them a meal.

Whatever our gifts may be, we have been called by God to use them “in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 4:11).

The fall at Omaha Bible Church is a great time to get plugged in to a ministry and start using your gifts to encourage and serve others. Look for a Ministry Promotion Sunday coming in August to help you learn more about different ministries in the church and to find a place where you can serve.

May the Lord be glorified and the body encouraged as we joyfully serve one another in the days ahead at Omaha Bible Church.