Experiencing the Holy Spirit and growing in his gifts Track 2: Experiencing the Blessing of God Experiencing the Holy Spirit and growing in his gifts

Introducing the Holy Spirit The person of the Holy Spirit The work of the Holy Spirit Romans 5:9 – adoption, fatherhood and sonship

Growing in the Gifts of the Spirit A wide range of gifts

Group work based on 1 Cor 12:1-13:3 Without getting stuck in the detail, try to work out a summary heading (different from the NIVs!) for each of these sections of the passage: 12:1-11 12:12-31a 12:31a-13:3 What was the key learning point for you for each section?

1 Cor 12:1-13:2 Many gifts but one Spirit (4-11) God’s varied grace – not to get stuck on one or two Many gifts but one body (12-30) The body needs me and my gifts The body doesn’t only need me and my gifts! Many gifts but one way (12:31-13:3) Gifts without love may look amazing but they’re nothing

Spiritual Gifts – what are they? The Message of Wisdom and the Message of Knowledge Faith Gifts of Healing(s) Miraculous Powers – lit workings of powers Prophecy Distinguishing between spirits Tongues and Interpretation Teaching Those able to help others Guidance / Leading (?Admin – old NIV)

Spiritual Gifts – what are they for? Strengthening oneself (esp tongues – 1 Cor 14:4) Strengthening the church (1 Cor 14:4-5)

Church – Model One Holy Spirit God’s grace

Church – Model Two D M G R S J R M C M

Church – Model Two D M G R S J R M C M

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Pet 4:10 TNIV) D M G R S J R M C M

“”If you speak you should do so as one who speaks the very words of God” (1 Pet 4:11 TNIV) Holy Spirit God’s grace

Church – NT model D M G R L L L R M C M

“It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Eph 4:11-12)

Spiritual gifts – are they all for today?

Spiritual Gifts – what are they for? Strengthening oneself (esp tongues – 1 Cor 14:4) Strengthening the church (1 Cor 14:4-5) A sign for unbelievers (1 Cor 14:22-25)

Spiritual Gifts – how to grow in yours Decide that you have them Desire the gifts and ask for them Discover what they are Study the relevant passages and see what you recognise in yourself What areas of service give you particular joy? In what areas of service do you see God most using you? What are the desires of your heart in relation to gifts? Ask God to show you your gifts Try – and ask for feedback… Ask others to help you discern them (and listen) Do the Network Course by Willow Creek

Spiritual Gifts – how to grow in yours Decide that you have them Desire the gifts and ask for them Discover what they are Develop your gifts Using them Learning from others with similar gifts Training and sharpening

Spiritual Gifts – how to grow in yours Decide that you have them Desire the gifts and ask for them Discover what they are Develop your gifts Discipline your gifts Under the guidance of your church leaders Invite testing and never use them for spiritual bullying Read 1 Cor 13 and Mark 10:35-45 regularly!

Experiencing the Spirit The Spirit in experience Three stories