Unity from Diversity

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them (1 Corinthians 12:4 TNIV).

It is very important to notice two things in this verse.  The first is that the gifts are different.  As we can see from the passages that follow, the gifts are diverse and useful in varying situations.  From the gift of discernment to that of helps and everything in between, by virtue of the gifts themselves, we are different.  God used the gifts as part of the fabric that makes us unique individuals who share one thing in common – God’s Spirit.  And it is God’s Spirit that makes us one.

The second important truth this verse holds is that it is the Spirit who distributes the gifts.  That means that whatever giftings you may have, they have nothing to do with you.  They were given by God’s Spirit to match God’s calling for God’s purpose.  So there is really no place for pride when exercising the gifts. 

Consider these three scriptures collectively and you will see how this tapestry comes together from God’s vantage point:

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10 NIV).

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose (Philippians 2:12-13 NIV).

So, the bottom line on gifts is – they equip you to execute the Ephesians 2:10 good works that God prepared for you before the foundation of earth, which are part of God’s Jeremiah 29:11 plan for your life – all of which Jesus expects you to work out in fear and trembling because He is co-laboring with you in your Philippians 2:12 salvation.

When you consider all of the intricacies of how God orchestrates this providential tapestry, you have to realize that He is the ultimate Mastermind of all times.  And because His final goal is unity out of all this diversity, He gives us the crowning and final word on spiritual gifts -

Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel (1 Corinthians 14:12 NKJV).

All gifts – no matter what they might be – are for the building up of the church.  If they don’t accomplish that purpose, then they are simply the clanging gongs and noisy cymbals of 1 Corinthians 13.

Today, I need to use my spiritual gifts to build up others so that my life might rhyme in sweet harmony with Heaven.