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Spiritual Gifts: Unity, Edification, and Order
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe early Corinthian church possessed a keen interest in spiritual gifts, enriched by God so that they came short in no gift. However, their lack of spiritual maturity led to misuse of these gifts, contributing to internal conflict and disunity due to envy, strife, and divisions among them. Paul, addressing this in his epistle, outlines three primary principles to guide the Corinthians in using the gifts God had abundantly bestowed upon them, ensuring their use pleased God and served the church. The first principle focuses on church unity, emphasizing the oneness of the Body of Christ despite differing gifts. Jesus Christ, as the Head of the Body, distributes gifts to each member individually as He wills through the same Spirit. Paul stresses that members should have the same care for one another, fostering unity among the brethren when gifts are used for the benefit of all. The second principle centers on edification, building up Christ's Body. Paul compares prophesying, which speaks edification, exhortation, and comfort to men, with speaking in tongues, which often edifies only the speaker unless interpreted. He urges the Corinthians to seek spiritual gifts for the edification of the church, prioritizing teaching and understanding over personal display, so that all things are done for the church's growth. The third principle addresses order within the church, particularly during services where gifts are exercised. Paul emphasizes the need for calm and order to reflect well on God and His representatives, warning against chaos that could confuse or alienate the uninformed or unbelievers. He instructs that all things be done decently and in order, as God is not the author of confusion but of peace. Overarching these principles is the necessity of godly love, described as a more excellent way. Paul asserts that conducting oneself in love before the church and the world ensures the best use of any gift for the honor and glory of God.
Spiritual Gifts, an Overview
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus Christ, as Head of the church, empowered His disciples through the Holy Spirit to perform mighty acts in service to His purpose. On the Pentecost after His resurrection, the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues was revealed, allowing the apostles to communicate the gospel in recognizable languages to people from distant lands gathered in Jerusalem. This gifting of aptitude for foreign languages enabled them to fulfill their commission to be witnesses to Him across the earth. In the first century, spiritual gifts were vital to the church's work. The apostle Paul extensively instructs on these gifts, emphasizing that each of God's chosen people has received at least one gift through His Spirit, distributed individually as He wills. These gifts, termed charismata, are gracious endowments from God, manifesting as talents or abilities for spiritual aims. Examples include the gift of prophecy to proclaim God's Word, the gift of healings to restore physical health, the gift of leadership to inspire action, and the gift of service to aid others. Throughout Scripture, God has bestowed various gifts for specific purposes. In the Old Testament, individuals like Bezalel received wisdom and skill for artistic work, Moses was given the ability to perform miracles, Joshua received strength and courage, and Solomon was granted a wise and understanding heart. These divine gifts often enhance natural talents, which God may have inspired long before conversion, utilizing them for His work. Spiritual gifts may be visible, such as speaking or singing, or less noticeable, like organizing, praying, or bringing cheer to others. Regardless of their visibility, God desires that these gifts be identified and used to the best of one's ability in service to Him and His people, giving freely as they have been freely given.
Gifted (Part Two)
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamSome may feel that they have not been gifted by God, yet God has gifted every saint. All gifts are from above and are meant to be mutually complementary.
Supernatural Gifts
Sermonette by Mark SchindlerAttitude, attitude, and attitude should lead us to correctly estimate the value of God's spiritual gifts.
A Survey of God's Gifts to Us
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe apostle Paul inventories spiritual gifts that God has given for the edification of the church, including ministry of the word and practical service.
Remembering God's Gifts, Promises, and Rewards
Sermon by John O. ReidDuring these times of intense distress and tribulation, God expects that we use our memories to reflect upon His gifts, promises, and rewards.
The Gift of Discerning Spirits
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasGod gives the ability to determine the source of a spiritual manifestation. However, this gift depends on a thorough knowledge and understanding of God's Word.
The Gifts We've Been Given
Sermonette by Ryan McClureThe gift of the Holy Spirit, leading to an intimate relationship with God, eternal life in the God family as called out firstfruits, is priceless.
God's Gift of the Spirit
Sermonette by James BeaubelleCompared to the Pentecost in Acts 2, our receipt of God's Spirit was attended with far less drama. However, the power of God's Spirit is no less potent.
The Measure of Christ's Gift
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJesus selected disciples with disparate temperaments, unifying them to accomplish a steadfast purpose. God disperses a wide diversity of spiritual gifts.

The Gift of Discernment and Godly Love
'Ready Answer' by Ronny H. GrahamScripture warns about end-time deceivers who will seduce church members to ungodly beliefs and ways. We must make righteous judgments to reject what is false.
Parable of the Talents (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsWhile the Parable of the Ten Virgins highlights preparation for Christ's return, the Parable of the Talents portrays Christians engaged in profitable activity.
Making Good Use of God's Talent
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeBiblically, a talent has nothing to do with ability, skill, or aptitude. The Parable of the Talents goes far beyond making use of skills and abilities.
Parable of the Talents (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Talents is often confused with the Parable of the Pounds. These parables illustrate Christian responsibilities from different angles.
Pentecost and Speaking In Tongues
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe apostle Paul teaches that tongues (languages) are only used to communicate intelligently, not gibberish. Tongues originally served as a sign for unbelievers.
God Expects a Return on His Investment (Part Two)
Sermon by David F. MaasGod's promises to give us the desires of our hearts, His Holy Spirit, wisdom, and spiritual gifts to edify the Body all come with strings attached.
The Peter Principle (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Mike FordThe Peter Principle is a concept in business management developed by Laurence J. Peter: People in a hierarchy tend to rise to their level of incompetence.
The Holy Spirit
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeGod's Holy Spirit typically refers to the mind of God and Christ, which is added to our human spirit to create a sound mind by which we witness of God.
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen (Part Eleven)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Parable of the Talents teaches the need for diligence in using the gifts of God. God expects us to use our talents to His glory and in the service of others.
Pioneers: Our Job Is the Journey
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThough we have been given gifts to edify the Body of Christ, these gifts are of ancillary purposes only as they move everyone forward on the spiritual journey.
Before the World Began
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod had each of us in mind before the foundation of the world, realizing how we would develop spiritually, reaching our ultimate destination in His family.
The Peter Principle (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Mike FordWe have our physical job, and then we also have our spiritual job. They go hand in hand. We are a witness to those we work with and to all those we meet.
Using Power Righteously (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)God has singled each one of us out individually, calling us, gifting us with capabilities, and preparing us for eternal life as members of His family.
The Holy Spirit and the Trinity (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe receive more of God's Spirit as we respond to His calling, drawing near to His presence and reversing Adam and Eve's fatal errors.
Grace Upon Grace
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughForgiveness is only the beginning of the grace process, enabling us to grow to the stature of Christ. Paradoxically, grace puts us under obligation to obey.
Unity and Godly Diversity in One Body
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerTo take sides in any type of national struggle is to battle on behalf of mankind's wrong-headed, godless attempts to avoid the consequences of sin.
Is the United States a Christian Nation? (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)When the U.S. Congress wanted to put 'In God we Trust' on currency, the Seventh Day Adventists objected, arguing that the U.S. has never been a Christian nation.

Titus (Part Four): Traits of a Healthy Church
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTitus 2 gives specific instructions to senior members of the congregation, followed by instructions to the youth, explaining their responsibilities.
Using God's Given Authority
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has gifted all His called-out ones, expecting them to use those gifts with the pillars of godly wisdom for the edification of the Body of Christ.
Sanctification and Holiness (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughDathan and Korah agitated for a democratization of priestly responsibilities. God shows that not everybody set apart is holy in the same way.
Pentecost and the Holy Spirit
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe receiving of God's Spirit is for God's creative effort in our lives. God's Spirit transforms us from a state of destruction into a state of purity.
God Expects a Return on His Investment (Part Three)
Sermon by David F. MaasThe natural gift, talent, or ability we receive at our birth provides the raw material God's Spirit uses to transform physical gifts into spiritual gifts.
Our Precious Calling
Sermonette by James BeaubelleGod has ordained that His chosen grow while residing in an environment of transience and corruption created by Satan and perpetuated by those rejecting God.
In Search of a Clear World View (Part Three)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Each member has been gifted by Christ. We must not go beyond the gifts that have been given to us, but must use them humbly, employing them to edify.
What Does God Really Want? (Part 6)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod provides the gift before it is actually needed so that when it is needed, everything is prepared for the person to do as he has been commissioned to do.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Eleven)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)As God sanctified Noah, saving him from the flood, we must trust God to sanctify us, protecting us from the holocaust of fire which will burn this earth.
Conviction and Moses
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur conviction reveals itself in living by faith. Moses is a stunning example of how a convicted Christian should live — with loyalty and faithfulness to God.
The Relationship Deficit (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeChrist is uncertain how much the Laodiceans really desire what He has offered them. Other things are competing for their attention. Will they open the door?
Unity (Part 3): Ephesians 4 (A)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod alone chooses the servants through whom He works His will. Sometimes the rationale God uses for selecting His vessels defies worldly wisdom.
Government (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe authority in the ministry is a 'staff position,' given by God, as a gift for equipping the saints for service and for edifying the body of Christ.