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Bible Studies for Life Lesson for April 30: Life in the Church
Chris Hefner, pastor, Wilkesboro Baptist Church
April 18, 2017
2 MIN READ TIME

Bible Studies for Life Lesson for April 30: Life in the Church

Bible Studies for Life Lesson for April 30: Life in the Church
Chris Hefner, pastor, Wilkesboro Baptist Church
April 18, 2017

Focal Passage: 1 Peter 4:7-11

Life is a glorious thing, especially when contrasted with the alternative. Living things move, act and grow. Dead things cease to do anything. To be alive in the church requires activity –more accurately, ministry.

Churches in America are too often full of spectators instead of participators.

First Peter 4:10 states, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”

Life in the church is to be marked by love and by service.

Note Peter’s words, “as each has received a gift.” There are few things more wonderful in the life of the church than to watch someone serve in their giftedness.

There are few things more difficult in the life of the church than watching someone serve in their area of weakness. Life in the church thrives when people serve in their strengths – think the beauty of a choir full of good singers.

Life in the church struggles when people are serving in their weaknesses, or not serving at all – think of a church where the pastor alone is responsible for all of the ministry. Peter echoes the rest of the New Testament regarding the giftedness of every Christian.

Each believer has a unique gift and calling for the building up of the body of Christ. When we are using our gifts for the growth of the church, life in the church blossoms. When we fail to use our gifts, the life of the church begins to wane.

I’m sure you understand the importance of a lively fellowship of believers intent on worshiping Jesus and spreading the good news – the church. We believers make up the church and are responsible for helping church life to thrive by using our gifts to serve others.

So, where are you serving?