Gifts To Use And Gifts to Keep - Part Two
1 Cor 12-14:12



INTRO: The word translated helps : 482. antilambanomai, an-tee-lam-ban'-om-ahee; from G473 and the mid. of G2983; to take hold of in turn, i.e. succor; also to participate:--help, partaker support.
 

Last week we looked briefly at gifts. Basically how God has set them up for use. We saw that they are diverse, alive, and very important to the Church. How are they to be used in our church world today? The need for them is to help the Church function and prosper.

They are for the benefit of Christ’s Church, not for specific believers to gain publicity or fame. They are to help all of us be better stronger Christians.
 

  1. God has a gift we all can use 13

    2.  
    1. His gift does not preclude charity in our hearts vs. 1-2
    2. Our works do not replace the need for charity vs. 3
    3. Charity is to be greatly desired – 14:1

  2. A look at charity

    3.  
      1. Long-suffering
      2. Not envious
      3. Not after glory (vaunteth not itself)
      4. Not puffed up
      5. Good behavior (not unseemly)
      6. Not selfish (seeketh not her own)
      7. No chip on shoulder (not easily provoked)
      8. Good thoughts (thinketh no evil)
      9. Doesn’t revel in misfortunes or misdeeds vs. 6
      10. Forbears others -- read vs. 7
      11. Hangs in there vs. 8

     
  3. A look at some of the best gifts again 12:28

    4.  
    1. Charity – unnamed in the earlier part, but specially dealt with
    2. Helps – like charity not glorious, From the word translated – to take hold of in turn, i.e. succor; also to participate:--help, partaker support.

      3.  
      1. Doing our share
      2. Just to help – not for glory (like Cousin Charity)
      3. Give assistance
      4. Take part
      5. Help
      6. Support
      7. Edification of the church
    3. Telling the Gospel story (prophesy)

     
  4. Summing up what God wants us to have and use

    5.  
    1. Charity – 13:13
    2. Edifying – 14:12
Conclusion: If we as believers and as a church would use these two gifts that God has designed, ordained, and prefers that we have in our every day walk, then God will greatly bless us!. We shall be able to rejoice – not only here on earth, as we see our loved ones and God’s creation saved from hell, but also in the glorious place He has prepared for us!
 

So what kind of gift are we looking, hoping, and seeking for?????

Gary Marcum - East 38th Street Free Will Baptist -03-29-98am