How can you "strive to excel" in building up the church today? Setting the Scene “Since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek to excel in gifts that build up the church.” (1 Corinthians 14:12) Paul speaks to believers already eager to serve but redirects that zeal toward whatever most strengthens Christ’s body. Scripture treats this as a present, ongoing obligation, not an optional ideal. Key Phrase: “Strive to Excel” • Strive—continuous, intentional effort (cf. Hebrews 10:24). • Excel—go beyond the ordinary, aiming for what most edifies (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:1). Ways to Excel in Building Up the Church • Identify and deploy God-given gifts (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Peter 4:10). – Ask mature believers to confirm observable gifts. – Insert those gifts into real ministry needs, not theoretical ones. • Anchor every action in love (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). – Talent minus love equals noise; talent plus love multiplies growth. • Teach or exhort with Scripture-saturated words (Colossians 3:16). – Lead small-group studies, mentor newer believers, write notes of encouragement. • Serve tangibly with hands and resources (James 2:15-17). – Meals, repairs, child care—ordinary acts that carry extraordinary weight. • Guard doctrinal purity (Jude 3; 2 Timothy 4:2). – Study diligently, refute error graciously, model sound doctrine. • Foster corporate worship and presence (Hebrews 10:25). – Arrive expectant, sing wholeheartedly, greet intentionally. • Pray persistently and specifically (Colossians 4:12; Acts 4:31). – Intercede for leaders, missionaries, the hurting, the hard-to-reach. • Cultivate accountability and restoration (Galatians 6:1-2). – Speak truth, bear burdens, celebrate repentance. • Champion unity across generations and cultures (Ephesians 4:3). – Invite diverse voices, mediate conflicts, highlight shared mission. Measuring Fruitful Excellence • Spiritual maturity advancing in others (Ephesians 4:13-16). • Observable love and good works increasing (Hebrews 10:24). • Sound doctrine holding firm (Titus 1:9). • New believers added (Acts 2:47). • Glory directed to Christ, not self (1 Peter 4:11). Staying Motivated • Remember Christ’s promise: “I will build My church” (Matthew 16:18). • Anticipate the reward: “Each will receive his own reward for his own labor” (1 Corinthians 3:8). • Rely on the Spirit’s enabling: “To each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). Excel, then, by channeling God’s gifts, love, and truth into concrete, Spirit-empowered service that visibly strengthens His people. |
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