Priesthood
of all believers . . .
Every Member a Missionary . . .
Gifted and Called
. . .
Perhaps
you have heard these phrases used around the Church, the Synod, and even in your
local congregation.
But what do they really mean?
How
does God intend for us to function as the Church?
How can I live out
my baptism?
What does it mean for me to be a missionary in my small
corner of the world?
These
questions are answered in the study of spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts are not
a new concept for the Church. The Letters in the New Testament speak extensively
of gifts (see I Corinthians 12; I Peter 4; Ephesians 4). There are many contributing
factors as to why the study of gifts has not traditionally been a key element
in Protestant or Lutheran education, but what a blessing that we have "rediscovered"
the importance of discovering and using our spiritual gifts.
In a time
when schedules are tight, church attendance is dwindling, and there are not enough
pastors to fill congregational vacancies, we need to know about our spiritual
gifts.
Why?
Spiritual gifts tie in to who God created us
to be and how we can best serve others, both individually and as communities of
faith. Congregations are more effective in their service and outreach when members
serve based on their strongest capabilities and deepest passions rather than just
out of a sense of obligation or duty.
What
Are Spiritual Gifts?
Spiritual gifts are unique endowments from the Holy
Spirit, shared with Christians in community for building up the body of Christ
in practical ways.
Do
I Have Spiritual Gifts?
Every Christian has at least one spiritual gift.
They are given to us at our baptism as we become a part of the body of Christ.
Why
Should I Discover My Spiritual Gifts?
God has designed the church so that
people can find deep meaning and experience powerful joy when they use their gifts
to serve others. God calls each of us to a purpose and gifts us to live out that
call! You and the gifts you bring to the community are an integral part of the
Body of Christ, locally, nationally, and globally.
How
Can I Learn More?
The Academy for Mission Planning Team is committed to
assisting congregations find the resources they need to strengthen their mission
focus. This may include suggestions for materials, conversations with other congregations
in our Synod that have experience in spiritual gifts discovery, partnerships with
local congregations also interested in exploring a gifts ministry, etc. Please
contact the Academy for Mission Planning Team through the Synod Office for more
information.
Take
a Spiritual Gifts Inventory Now >>
