How can we prioritize spiritual gifts over material possessions in our community? Setting the Scene in Acts 3 - “But Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!’ ” (Acts 3:6) - Peter and John meet a man expecting money. Instead, they channel the risen Christ’s power. - The miracle shows that spiritual resources meet the deepest needs people carry—needs money can never touch. What Peter Offered: The Gift of Christ’s Power - Physical healing in Jesus’ name—evidence of the Spirit’s presence (Acts 3:7-8). - A testimony that turned a crowd toward repentance (Acts 3:19). - An illustration that spiritual gifts are meant to lift others, not elevate self. Why Spiritual Gifts Surpass Silver - Material wealth is temporary; spiritual fruit endures (Matthew 6:19-21). - God entrusts believers with “treasure in jars of clay” to display His power (2 Corinthians 4:7). - Faith-filled generosity reveals God’s kingdom to the poor and the rich alike (James 2:5; Acts 20:35). Practical Steps for Our Community - Identify the gifts God has placed among us—teaching, mercy, prophecy, helps, giving (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-7). - Celebrate testimonies of spiritual impact more than financial success in meetings, newsletters, and conversations. - Allocate time in gatherings for prayer, laying on of hands, prophetic encouragement, and acts of service before discussing budgets. - Direct resources toward ministries that deploy gifts—discipleship, evangelism, counseling—rather than accumulating assets. - Pair financial generosity with spiritual ministry: when giving groceries, pray for healing; when supporting missions, prophesy over the senders. - Train members to ask, “What spiritual gift can I contribute here?” before asking, “How much money is needed?” Scripture Connections - “Earnestly pursue love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 14:1). - “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another … so that in all things God may be glorified” (1 Peter 4:10-11). - “Watch out and guard yourselves from every kind of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). - “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Living It Out Together - Keep Acts 3:6 visible—in wallets, meeting rooms, social media feeds—to remind us daily that spiritual power outranks material wealth. - Measure success by transformed lives, reconciled relationships, and growing Christ-likeness. - As we prioritize spiritual gifts, the world witnesses a community where the name of Jesus still makes the lame walk—sometimes in body, always in heart. |
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