1 Corinthians 12:12-27

If there is one thing that Satan does not want you to know, it is that you play an important role in the body of Christ. He would like nothing more than for you to feel inferior or insignificant, but that is just not so. No matter whom you are, where you came from, what you look like, or how much money you have, you play a major role in the body of Christ. Paul speaks about this in 1 Corinthians 12.

He starts by comparing the body of Christ with the natural human body. Throughout these verses, Paul emphasizes the fact that the human body, as well as the body of Christ has many different parts. Think about all the parts of your body and their specific functions, and then relate that to the body of Christ. You have legs, arms, feet, hands, eyes, ears, and many other parts. Each of these parts has a specific function. It is also important to note that the different parts of your body rely on the other parts to be able to perform their functions. In verse 21, Paul states that the eye cannot say to the hand, I don't need you. The head cannot say to the feet, I don't need you. For instance, while driving a car, your hands, eyes, ears, and your feet are used to navigate where you are going and to make sure you get there safely. If these parts aren't working together, the job will not get done.

Just like the human body, EACH of us has a specific duty or duties in the body of Christ, and EACH are given specific gifts to accomplish our duties. Do not feel like you have nothing to offer. You are very important. Even if your gift or gifts do not stand out like others may, that doesn't make you any less significant. Paul also states that some parts of the body that seem the weakest, are actually the most important. Likewise, don't assume that because your gifts DO stand out, that you are more important. For instance, some people will have a gifting in the area of service, which is more or less behind the scenes. This person is no less important than the person who gets up and sings a beautiful song in a worship service. Romans 12:3 reminds us to not think we are better than we really are.

Always keep in mind that the reasons we are given these different gifts are to glorify God and for the benefit of others. 1 Corinthians 12:7 says that a spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church. It is for the church as a whole, not just ourselves.

As you continue in your day to day life, please keep in mind, that everyone in the body of Christ has a very specific and important role to play. We must work together as one. Always remember to encourage your brothers and sisters in Christ to use their gifts to glorify God and to stay strong in the work of the Lord. I pray now that we would not be selfish with our gifts, but that we would use them to edify the body of Christ.

*Let the words of Christ, in all their richness, live in your hearts and make you wise.* - Colossians 3:16

Joshua A. Davis