In 1945, Alexander Fleming received a Nobel Prize for penicillin, but instead of celebrating, he warned that a medicine used badly, in doses that are too small and without need, will stop working. Good things in the spiritual life can go the same way. This sermon opens 1 Corinthians 12, where Paul teaches the church in Corinth how to understand the Holy Spirit and His gifts. One Spirit gives many gifts, everyone has a place in the body, and above it all stands love as the most excellent way. Listen if you wonder whether you have the Spirit, what gift you have been given, and whom you are meant to serve with it.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- How does Paul answer the question in 1 Corinthians 12:1-3 of how we know someone has the Holy Spirit? What does this say about the Corinthians' doubts?
- Why does Paul compare the church to a body in 1 Corinthians 12:12-26? Which sentence from this passage stops you in particular?
- What does it mean that gifts are given "for the common good"? How is this different from having a gift for your own glory or with shame?
- The sermon said that gifts are what we do, and fruit is who we are. Why does Paul put love above even the most spectacular gifts?
- When you look around at your family, your work, and your church, what needs do you see? How might this connect with the gift the Spirit gave you?
- Who in the church could help you judge whether your service builds others up? Who will you talk to this week, and what one step will you take?
