Topic: Gifts For Edification Only [22/9/2016]
Text: Ephesians 4:7-8
Scriptures say in Luke 24:50 – “and he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.” This shows the last act of Jesus on earth – blessing His disciples, and one of the blessings was the release of ministry gifts unto them. Ephesians 4:8 says: “wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.”
The gifts are for the perfection of the saints, for the work of the ministry, so that we all may come to the fullness of the stature of Christ (Ephesians 4:12-13). He has given the gifts to us, and we must use them for this sole purpose. They are for the edification of the church alone and not for self-elevation. The gifts of the Spirit are given for the profit of all in the body of Christ.
The possessors of such gifts must use them only for the benefit of the body of Christ. Anything short of that will amount to an abuse of such gifts. *They are for edification not for destruction.* In Luke 9:51-56, James and John wanted to use the gift for destruction, but Jesus Christ rebuked them. We must seek to build the body of Christ only. Any action that will destroy the body of Christ, either through selfishness or the unnecessary use of our gifts must be discouraged. The gifts are for the edification of the body of Christ.
Keep winning daily.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the gifts You have given to the church. I pray that these gifts be channelled into the edification of the church. I pray that the negative use of Your gifts will cease and that the church, through the positive use of these gifts, will grow into Your fullness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
By Ese Ehimare Dave
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