We are the Body

Acts 17:26 – You are not without a destiny. You have a purpose. You are integral in
God’s plan for this day and age. Therefore, we don’t want to be ignorant of our God-
given destiny and purpose.
The first thing we need to realize – we are not all the same:
1 Corinthians 12:12 – a body of many parts that all have different functions. “so it is
with Christ” – Ephesians 5:29-30. 13 – One Spirit made us into a body (1 Corinthians
12:3). This is why Jesus said John 3:6. Spiritual things can only be understood through
the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-16). 14-20 – Don’t think that anyone’s position in the body
makes them better than you. Every part belongs to the body. Don’t feel inferior to
anyone – you have your own unique individual God-given destiny. 21 – And no one
should boast of their position in God’s body. The only boasting allowed for a Christian is
this – 1 Corinthians 1:31. What does this boast look like? (Jeremiah 9:24). 22 – If a
single Christian is removed from our body then the results are disastrous. This is why we
should make every effort to encourage those who are backsliding. 23 – The Bible says
we should begin to honor every part we think is less important (Romans 13:7). 24 – You
don’t need to honor the position that everyone already holds in high regard. 25 – God is
looking for unity. Elimination of divisions comes with understanding – 1 Corinthians
4:7 – how can you boast about your abilities when everything you are has come from
God? You didn’t make yourself the way you are; you didn’t give yourself talents; it all
comes from God. 26 – there is no apathy in the body. There is no jealousy in the body.
27-28 – potential destinies that might be yours. Apostles – they have the multitasking
ability to take on many of the roles in the body. Prophets – they are the lifeline of God’s
direct communication with the world (Amos 3:7). Teachers – instructing God’s children
how to walk with Jesus, not an easy task (James 3:1). Miracle workers – supernatural
faith leads these people to follow 2 Corinthians 4:13. Healers – these people begin to
recognize how to pray effectively and speak directly to the issues with authority; their
communication with God is amazing so that He hears them (1 John 5:14). Helpers –
give time, love, mentoring, share possessions (1 John 3:17). Administrative gifts – a
good understanding of budgets, finance, business, life, street-smarts (Luke 16:8-12).
Tongues speakers – when Christians come together you won’t find everyone speaking in
tongues and interpreting what was said for the church. 29-31 – These are specific
callings in life. Although each of us can dabble in the work of apostle, prophet, healer,
etc, we each have a unique destiny that will bring us into a calling listed here or in
Ephesians 4:3-7, 11-12. Evangelist – fulltime efforts to save the lost. Pastor –
responsibility over a flock of God’s sheep.
Now that we know we aren’t all the same, we must know we’re still one body with one
head:
Because Jesus is our head, we must ALL do what Jesus said:
Two very important principles all Christians must follow –
Matthew 22:36-40 – love fulfills all the requirements of the OT.
Matthew 28:18-20 – make disciples fulfills the requirements of the NT.
These two are things that no Christian can claim immunity from.
Hindrances to becoming an effective body:
1 Corinthians 6:15-20 – relationships are often a big hindrance to an effective body.
Instead of loving and saving the lost we find ourselves steeped in drama and guilt.
Romans 6:13 – any sin will keep us out of God’s perfect will and plan for our lives.
How we find out our destinies:
Psalm 139:16 – ask God because He already has your whole life written down.
James 1:5-8 – a destiny takes wisdom to understand and belief that God wants to give
you what you need to walk with Him.
Matthew 7:7-8 – knowing your destiny comes from asking, seeking, knocking.
Jeremiah 33:3 – get yourself into a relationship with God where you can actively hear
His voice.