I Belong
INTRODUCTION.
Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
We were never created to do life alone, life was meant to be shared because when we share it, we are better together.
God has designed us to grow together and everyone desires to belong. Apostle Paul talks about the body of Christ – [the church Family] in 1 Corinthians 12:12-19
The church in Corinth was small in size but struggled with immaturity and divisions regarding spiritual gifts.
Jesus Makes It Possible For You To Belong
“For in one Spirit we were baptized into one body—” —1 Cor. 12:13a
You belong regardless of the barriers that have existed in your past or your background.
From the 1st century, we see extreme prejudice and racism that existed between Jews & Gentiles [Unclean]. Paul mentions this as a barrier – Slave [Property], Women & Men – Christ Is for All – No Lower or Upper Class – before God, ALL ARE EQUAL
Now 2000 years later, we see social-economic barriers, racial barriers, etc.
This church should reflect our community – Regardless of your past – you belong
“Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” —1 Corinthians 12:13b “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” —Gal 3:28
Our Belonging Means That Every Person and Every Spiritual Gift Is Vital To Our Overall Effectiveness
Christianity is a movement and everyone has a part to play.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,” —Colossians 3:23
We Are Better Together When We Depend upon Each Other.
Today’s Society is bombarded by this Philosophy of self-sufficiency.
Christianity is not a religion of independence but a relationship of interdependence.
Do it yourself is not part of God’s plan for us.
YOU BELONG – WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER