I Peter 4:7-11

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20

These words from the Master clearly call us to service. Our task? Make disciples. How will this be accomplished? Through the joint effort of every Christian who obeys the Word of the Lord.

The Word of God sets forth how we will fulfill our mission. By heeding this Scripture’s admonitions, each of us can faithfully serve Christ in these end times.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10

This Scripture teaches us that we can be most effective in Christ’s work by using the special gifts God has granted us. Several things are worth considering.

• Recognize the value of gifts (special gift)
  • Utilizing gifts improves the quality of your own Christian life as God works through you
    • Removes frustration
    • Fulfills your life
    • Improves the quality of your Christian living
  • Improves the work of the Church
    • More persons will be involved
    • Working in the area of our gifts will improve the output both in volume and quality
  • Glorifies God
    • Through individual obedience
    • Through a ministering congregation
• Realize the use of the gift (employ it)
  • Gifts are functional
    • When God calls you to serve, He has already equipped you with the gift of service
    • When He gives the gift, He also gives the vehicle for its use
  • They are congregational
    • They are to be used in and through the church
      • In the church to build up
      • Through the church to reach out
• Reorganize to use the gifts (as good stewards)
  • Stewardship requires it
    • We are accountable
  • The times require it
    • The end of all things is at hand

By God’s grace, He has given you and me the privilege of serving Him. With that privilege, God has provided so we may serve Him effectively. Our effectiveness will be seen as God empowers us through the special gifts He gives, which we use for His glory.