All are invited to join us for Sunday Service at 10 am on January 19.  Sunday school takes place during the service and there is coffee and a chance to visit after the service.

Following are Rev. Marlene’s thoughts on the upcoming service.

Marlene’s Rev. Notes:

“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”

1 Corinthians 12:7

Written around AD 50, Paul’s letter strives to give guidance to a vibrant community, whose boasting and pride have led to divisions and factions. Paul has the delicate task of supporting their enthusiasm for the gifts of the Spirit, yet insisting that the gifts be used for the common good. Here, Paul addresses the Corinthians’ questions about spiritual gifts, emphasizing their unity and divine origin. The passage highlights diversity within the community and the Spirit’s role in empowering believers. It also invites believers to appreciate the Spirit’s work in equipping the church for unity and mission.

Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of their former pagan ways, and the need for true spiritual discernment. The ability to declare “Jesus is Lord” is presented as the hallmark of the Spirit’s presence, contrasting it with the powerless worship of idols setting the stage for understanding spiritual gifts as Christ-centered and Spirit-driven. Then Paul underscores the diversity of gifts, services, and activities but affirms their unity in origin: the same Spirit, Lord, and God. Spiritual gifts are given for the benefit of all, not for personal status or gain. This principle reorients the Corinthians away from competition and pride in their spiritual abilities.

Paul lists examples of spiritual gifts: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, and the interpretation of tongues. Representing a broad spectrum of abilities, all inspired by the Spirit, showcasing God’s provision for the church’s needs. The Spirit willingly distributes gifts, highlighting its’ divine sovereignty and intentionality. This reminds the Corinthians and us, that spiritual gifts are not earned or chosen, but are graciously given.

Rev. Marlene