Being a Contributing Member of the Body of Christ

Every believer is uniquely gifted by God to serve the body of Christ.

Spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit for the benefit of all, not for personal gain.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.Romans 12:6-8

Each gift, no matter how seemingly small, is essential to the health and function of the church.

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.Ephesians 4:16

The body of Christ thrives on unity and diversity working together.

Though believers have different roles, they are all part of one body under Christ.

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.Galatians 3:28

Diversity in gifts and functions prevents division and promotes care for one another.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.Philippians 2:3-4

Neglecting participation weakens the entire body.

When one member fails to contribute, the whole body suffers.

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.James 2:14-17

Believers are accountable for using their gifts wisely.

Christ is glorified when His body functions as one cohesive unit.

The church reflects Christ’s love and unity to the world when its members work together in harmony.

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.John 17:21

A properly functioning body builds itself up in love and glorifies God through its service together.

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.Ephesians 4:15-16

Commit to making Huikala stronger by fully committing to the body of Christ.

Identify your spiritual gifts and use them.

Cultivate a spirit of gratitude as you see others using their gifts to serve Jesus.

Seek continued growth in an effort to live a life that is useful to Jesus.