1 Cor 12:1-3

Remember the theme we've seen over and over. What is it?

And what subject is Paul bringing in now? It will be interesting to see how he ties this in with his overall theme.

Read verses

The facts:

1. List the three sets of contrasts in verses 1-3.

2. What might we name theses categories? 1 beliefs, worshippers 2 object of beliefs, worshippees, 3 resulting actions

Interpretation:

1. Let's get specific. give me scripture. ch 11:27, 12, 13 What does it mean to say that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit?

Does he mean that it is not possible for an unbeliever to to form the words, "Jesus is Lord," or for a believer to say, "Jesus be cursed?"

In what sense, then, does he mean that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus be cursed," and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit? Give me scripture showing that You understand this principle.

Truly say? What does that mean? In what way would an unbeliever say, "Jesus be cursed," even if his lips were saying, "Jesus is Lord?" Actions?

2. Why then is Paul so concerned that they are not ignorant about spirtual gifts? --apparently they are the only way to have ones actions declare the Lordship of Christ in the life!

Is it possible for a believer who is ignorant about spiritual gifts to be speaking as if he was an unbeliever?

Can you begin to see the importance of spiritual gifts in the life of the believer?

skip? Save for next time. context? from the context, how does a knowledge of spiritual gifts declare the Lordship of Jesus Christ? What two characteristics become apparent in the church? Give me scripture or give me death.

Application:

We SDA's typically teach people and teach people and fill their heads with all kinds of info up until they're baptized and then once their name is on our lists, we stop and say, "Okay, we got them."

3. What does this passage suggest might be even more important to teach new converts? We've done this before. What would happen if we said to each other, "I need you."

But we do not teach people how to make their actions follow their confession. People need to know what their ministry is, what role they play in the church. They need to know that they are needed. Young baptisms? Ruth story. Jeff, testify?

Are you aware that you cannot find out what Your gifts are apart from the body?

4. Who is ready to explain how this ties in with all Paul's earlier instructions to the Corinthians about spiritual growth? How does his instruction about divisions fit in with this?