DO I FIT? - A Special Part

DO I FIT? - A Special Part

INTRODUCTION:

Getting a desired job requires series of advance preparations in terms of qualifications and work experience. However, there have been instances where a prospective candidate is employed and trained for the job, considering some potential factors. The body of Christ comprises of people from various background, training and experience. Each person is unique in knowledge and skills. We would not be unfit to work for God because of lack of previous experience but willingness to learn, consecrate and remain faithful are crucial. Do you desire to work for God? It is a good aspiration. Your fitness is based on your availability, consecration, faithfulness, humility and other factors that we shall explore. The absence of what makes us fit for God’s work makes us unfit.

God is looking for men, women, boys and girls. You are unique and have a special role.

QUESTIONS:

Just as the many members of the physical body are dependent on each other, so it is with a church. The members are united and supportive of each other. Without this union no church could exist. God has given to each of us grace and ability to accomplish the work He has called us to do. But to be effective for God we must consecrate our lives to do His bidding.

1. What is meant by the phrase, the Body of Christ?

KEY POINTS:

Redeemed

Belonged to Christ

One unit - Church

Different parts (Function, talents, responsibilities)

Unique

Diversity

Dependent

Vision

Mission

Purpose

Same Faith

Reward

Heaven focused

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Unity in Diversity: The Body of Christ consists of many members with different gifts and functions, yet all are essential to the whole.

   1 Corinthians 12:12-14 - "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ."

Mutual Interdependence: Each believer is important, and the well-being of one affects the entire body.

   1 Corinthians 12:25-27 - "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular."

Call to Serve: Membership in the Body of Christ entails a call to serve one another using our unique gifts.

   Ephesians 4:11-12 - "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."

Growth in Christ: The Body of Christ is meant to grow and mature in faith and love.

   Ephesians 4:15-16 - "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

Christ as the Head: Jesus Christ is the head of the Body, directing and sustaining it.

   Colossians 1:18 - "And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence."

Love as the Foundation: The Body of Christ is characterized by love, which binds its members together.

   Colossians 3:14 - "And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness."

Mission and Purpose: The Body of Christ is called to spread the Gospel and reflect Christ's love in the world.

   Matthew 28:19-20 - "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."

2. How is the decision made to determine where one fits into the Body of Christ?

KEY POINTS:

Universal call (Whosoever will)

Covenant assignment

Faithfulness (Opportunities & responsibilities)

Knowledge

Willingness

Availability

Learning

Observation

Commitment

Obedience

Humility

Discipline

Purpose

God’s Spiritual disperse mechanism

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Prayer: Engaging in prayer is essential for understanding one's role and purpose within the Body of Christ.

   James 1:5 - "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

Spiritual Gifts: Knowing one’s spiritual gifts helps identify where one can serve effectively in the Body.

   1 Corinthians 12:7 - "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

Self-Reflection and Assessment: Reflecting on personal strengths, passions, and experiences can reveal suitable areas of service.

Church Leaders and Fellow Believers: Engaging with leaders and other members can provide insight and confirmation of one’s fit within the Body.

   Proverbs 15:22 - "Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counselors they are established."

Opportunities for Service: Actively participating in various ministries and community programs can help identify areas where one feels called and equipped to serve.

   Galatians 6:9 - "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

Biblical Principles: Understanding the scriptural mandates regarding the roles in the Body of Christ can guide decisions about service.

   Ephesians 4:12-13 - "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."

Holy Spirit: Being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit is essential in making decisions about one's role and responsibilities in the community of believers.

   Romans 8:14 - "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."

Committing to Growth and Development: Being open to growth through study, training, and mentorship can help believers discover and develop their roles more clearly.

   2 Timothy 2:15 - "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

3. What is the particular place that Christ fills in the Body? What is the responsibility of the members toward Christ?

KEY POINTS:

Head:

Brain – spiritual central processing unit

Eyes – spiritual vision

Ears - Hear

Smell – Detect the good and the bad

Taste - Spiritual sweetness

Mouth – Spiritual food intake, speak for God, speak life/wisdom…to situations

Others:

Authority

Source

Protector – general overview

Builder

Guide & Leader

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 Christ's Place in the Body of Christ

Christ as the Head: Jesus is the authoritative leader and spiritual head of the Church, directing its mission and purpose.

   Colossians 1:18 - "And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence."

Source of Life and Nourishment: Christ is the life-giving source for all believers, sustaining spiritual growth and health within the Body.

   John 15:5 - "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

Unified Purpose: Christ unifies the Body, giving it direction and a common goal to fulfill the Great Commission.

Example of Character: Christ serves as the ultimate example of love, humility, and service that members are called to emulate.

   Philippians 2:5 - "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."

 Responsibilities of the Members Toward Christ

Submission to His Authority: Members are to willingly submit to Christ's leadership, recognizing His authority in their lives and within the Church.

   Ephesians 5:24 - "Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing."

Living in Obedience: Believers should strive to live according to His teachings and commandments, reflecting His character in their daily lives.

   John 14:15 - "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

Seeking to Know Him: Members should pursue a deeper relationship with Christ through prayer, study of the Word, and fellowship.

   Philippians 3:10 - "That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death."

Serving Others in His Name: Followers of Christ are called to serve one another, embodying His love and compassion.

   Galatians 5:13 - "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another."

Proclaiming His Gospel: Members have the responsibility to share the Gospel with others, fulfilling the Great Commission and making disciples.

   Mark 16:15 - "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

Encouraging One Another: Members are encouraged to support and uplift each other in their faith journeys, fostering a healthy and loving community.

   Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

4. In what manner does a person develop his usefulness, and become able to accept other responsibilities as a part of the Body of Christ?

KEY POINTS:

Spiritual Relationship

Word knowledge

Prayer life

Vision

Mission

Purpose

Consecration

Commitment

Learn (Unlearn, relearn, learn…)

Occupy

Faithfulness

Humility

Obedience

Discipline

Professional know-how

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 Developing Usefulness in the Body of Christ

Personal Commitment to Spiritual Growth: Dedicating time to prayer, Bible study, and spiritual disciplines is essential for personal development.

   2 Peter 3:18 - "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen."

Understanding and Utilizing Spiritual Gifts: Recognizing and developing spiritual gifts through study and practice helps believers find their place in the Body.

   1 Corinthians 12:7 - "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

Serving Faithfully in Current Roles: Accepting and performing current responsibilities with diligence prepares one for greater duties.

   Colossians 3:23-24 - "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

Seeking Mentorship: Learning from more mature believers or church leaders can provide valuable insights and guidance for spiritual development.

   Proverbs 27:17 - "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."

Being Open to the Holy Spirit's Leading: Listening and responding to the Holy Spirit’s guidance can lead to new opportunities for growth and service.

   Romans 8:14 - "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."

Participating in Church Activities: Actively engaging in church life creates opportunities for learning, serving, and cultivating relationships.

   Hebrews 10:25 - "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

Embracing Challenges and New Opportunities: Being willing to step outside one’s comfort zone can lead to personal growth and expanded responsibilities.

   Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Cultivating a Servant's Heart: Adopting an attitude of service and humility prepares one to take on additional responsibilities in the Body.

   Mark 10:43-45 - "But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."

5. What part of the Body is more important than the others, apart from the Head?

KEY POINTS:

Redemption price – The Blood (same for all)

Transformation – Salvation (no preference status)

Engagement – The Gospel (level playing ground)

Perspective Authority – God (same for all)

Requirement -Faithfulness

Scope of operations – Many (Diverse and relative)

Importance of units of operations – every unit counts

Assessment authority – God (no man will do the recommendation)

Rewards – God (no determines what God rewards)

Comparison (order of importance) – unnecessary and unwise

Arrogation of self-glory/praise - pride

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 Equality and Importance of Each Part of the Body

All Members Have Value: Each member of the Body has a distinct purpose and is indispensable for the Church's health and effectiveness.

   1 Corinthians 12:18 - "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him."

Interdependence of Parts: Every part relies on one another to function properly; this interdependence highlights that no part is more important than another.

   1 Corinthians 12:21-22 - "And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary."

Different Gifts, Equal Importance: Members may have different spiritual gifts, but each gift is vital for the Church's work and should be valued equally.

   Romans 12:4-5 - "For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another."

Diversity of Functions: The Body is designed with a variety of functions, and each is essential for accomplishing the mission of Christ.

   Ephesians 4:16 - "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

Honoring All Parts: There should be no discrimination in how we view one another; every role deserves respect and recognition.

   1 Corinthians 12:23-24 - "And those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked."

Encouragement in Weakness: The weaker members of the Body are important, and all members must care for one another.

   1 Corinthians 12:25-26 - "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it."

6. What is the responsibility of each member toward the others?

KEY POINTS:

Unity (Oneness)

Spiritual responsibilities

Moral responsibilities

Care

Communication

Support

Celebrate

Correction

Practical love

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 Responsibilities of Each Member Toward One Another

Support and Encouragement: Members are called to encourage one another in faith, helping to strengthen each other’s resolve and spiritual growth.

   1 Thessalonians 5:11 - "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."

Practicing Love: Genuine love among members is essential for maintaining unity and harmony in the Body of Christ.

   John 13:34-35 - "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."

Bearing One Another’s Burdens: Members should support each other in times of difficulty, sharing in each other’s struggles to lighten the load.

   Galatians 6:2 - "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."

Using Gifts for the Benefit of Others: Each member is responsible for using their spiritual gifts to serve the other members, contributing to the overall well-being of the Church.

   1 Peter 4:10 - "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

Promoting Unity and Peace: Members should actively work towards maintaining harmony and peace within the Body.

   Ephesians 4:3 - "Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Praying for One Another: Members are called to pray for each other regularly, seeking God’s help and guidance on behalf of their fellow believers.

   James 5:16 - "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Leading by Example: Members should strive to live a life that reflects Christ, serving as an example to others in the faith.

   1 Timothy 4:12 - "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

Offering Forgiveness: Members must be willing to forgive one another, just as Christ forgave them, promoting healing and reconciliation.

   Colossians 3:13 - "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."

7. List some of the ways in which the Body is benefited when all the members are working together as a unit and all fit into their respective places.

KEY POINTS:

Organizational/Corporate benefits

Individual benefits

Smooth operations

High productivity

Testimony to others

Joyful service

Absence of frictions

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 Benefits of Unity and Cooperation in the Body of Christ

Enhanced Effectiveness in Ministry: The combined efforts of all members lead to a more effective ministry, allowing the Church to fulfill its mission more successfully.

   Ephesians 4:16 - "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

Mutual Support and Strength: When working together, members can support one another through challenges, fostering resilience and spiritual growth.

   Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up."

Stronger Fellowship: A united Body fosters deeper relationships, creating a sense of belonging and community among believers.

   Acts 2:44 - "And all that believed were together, and had all things common."

Increased Spiritual Growth: Working together encourages accountability, teaching, and the edification of members, promoting spiritual maturity.

   Colossians 3:16 - "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

Greater Impact on the Body of Christ: A unified Body can reach out more effectively to the surrounding community, serving as a powerful witness for Christ.

   Matthew 5:14 - "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."

Fulfillment of Spiritual Gifts: When all members operate in their gifts, it allows for a full expression of the Body’s capabilities, leading to a thriving Church.

   1 Corinthians 12:7 - "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

Multiplication of Resources: Collectively, the resources (time, talent, and treasure) of the members can be pooled to accomplish greater goals for ministry.

   2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."

Demonstration of Christ's Love: Unified action showcases Christ’s love to the world, reflecting the Gospel through the collective behavior of the Body.

   John 17:21 - "That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me."

8. How does consecration help us continue to fit into the place that God has planned for us?

KEY POINTS:

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 Benefits of Consecration for Fitting into God’s Plan

Consecration:

Set apart for God

God first (Choices, Priorities)

Holy

Faithful

Obedience

Committed

Diligent

Integrity

Hardworking (Extra mile)

Humble

Availability

Willingness

Clarity of Purpose: Consecration helps believers understand their unique calling and purpose within the Church, aligning their lives with God's will.

   Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."

Spiritual Growth: By setting themselves apart for God's work, believers cultivate a deeper relationship with Him, which equips them for their roles.

   James 4:8 - "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Consecration opens the door for the Holy Spirit to empower believers, enabling them to serve effectively in their designated roles.

   Acts 1:8 - "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."

Increased Sensitivity to God's Leading: A consecrated life fosters a greater sensitivity to the leading of the Holy Spirit, guiding individuals toward their appointed place in the Body.

   Romans 8:14 - "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."

Cultivation of Christ-like Character: Through consecration, believers develop the character traits of Christ, which are essential for maintaining unity and harmony within the Body.

   Galatians 5:22-23 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

Commitment to Service: Consecrated individuals are more likely to serve wholeheartedly, actively seeking out opportunities to contribute to the Church's mission.

   Colossians 3:23 - "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."

Preparation for Challenges: Consecration helps believers remain steadfast and committed, even in the face of difficulties or setbacks, as they are focused on God's purpose.

   Philippians 3:14 - "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Growth: A consecrated life encourages others to seek holiness- an environment of mutual growth and accountability within the Body of Christ.

   Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

 

CONCLUSION:

1 Take my life and let it be

consecrated, Lord, to thee.

Take my moments and my days;

let them flow in endless praise,

let them flow in endless praise.

2 Take my hands and let them move

at the impulse of thy love.

Take my feet and let them be

swift and beautiful for thee,

swift and beautiful for thee.

3 Take my voice and let me sing

always, only, for my King.

Take my lips and let them be

filled with messages from thee,

filled with messages from thee.

4 Take my silver and my gold;

not a mite would I withhold.

Take my intellect and use

every power as thou shalt choose,

every power as thou shalt choose.

5 Take my will and make it thine;

it shall be no longer mine.

Take my heart it is thine own;

it shall be thy royal throne,

it shall be thy royal throne.

6 Take my love; my Lord, I pour

at thy feet its treasure store.

Take myself, and I will be

ever, only, all for thee,

ever, only, all for thee.