Connect Group guide: One body, many gifts
Summary
Text: Romans 12: 3-8
Paul writes about humility with a key metaphor – that of the church being a body made of many members, in which each plays its part. This metaphor is similar to 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4. We are one body and we should each use our different gifts in service to one another. Every gift is a gift of grace (v6) and each is valuable. For the first few gifts, Paul just says we should use the gifts we’ve been given, but then to the final 3 he attaches an attitude (v8):
- Give with generosity
- Lead with zeal
- Show mercy with cheerfulness
It’s not just what we do with the gifts, but our heart attitude that is important. As we seek to rebuild the church, we all have a part to play. Take some time to reflect on the following questions, discussing them together and allowing others to help you identify and be encouraged in your gifts.
- What gifts do you have and how are you using them for the building of the church?
- In what ways might we be tempted to think too highly of ourselves?
- How can we ensure we use our gifts with the accompanying right heart attitude?
- As we are regathering after lockdowns, how can we be encouraging and looking out for those who are unable/yet to return to services?