Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “Talents”, pages 325-365, in Christ’s Object Lessons. The correct understanding of the biblical teaching of spiritual gifts brings unity to the church. The recognition that each one of us is valuable and a needed member of the body of Christ is a unifying thought. Every member of the church is necessary … Continue reading –>
We were in our last couple nights of evangelism meetings when a water pipe burst, flooding a room behind the sanctuary, near the baptistry entrance. One of the deacons told a local elder to help the other deacons pump the water out. The elder politely replied that he could not do that, because he had … Continue reading –>
Read the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. What is the most significant thought that stands out to you in this story? Why were the first two servants commended by God and the last servant condemned? What does this parable tell us about the use of our talents? Particularly notice Matthew 25:29. The master gave to each … Continue reading –>
Compare 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 with 2 Corinthians 1:20-22. What do these passages tell us about the promises of God and especially spiritual gifts prior to the second coming of Christ? God promises that His church will manifest all of the gifts of the Holy Spirit just before the return of our Lord. His promises are sure. He has … Continue reading –>
This Video is prepared by the South Pacific Division Discipleship team. As you watch this week’s Sabbath school video, reflect on your own experiences in witnessing to others, praying with others, and ministering to the needs of others? How have these experiences impacted your own faith and walk with the Lord?
Continue reading -->(The following topics are presented to encourage group discussion and individual exploration of this week’s theme.) Differing gifts: united in service. Our lesson reminds us that the disciples were not identical replicas of one nature but were diversified, different, special people with individual gifts and challenges. Should we be that diversified today? Should we strive … Continue reading –>
Key Thought: God calls us to witness for Him. Witnessing is not a special gift. Witnessing is the Divine calling of each Christian. Soul-winning is a science, and we need to study and learn how to be good witnesses. August 8, 2020 1. Have a volunteer read I Corinthians 12:12,13, 18-22. Ask class members to … Continue reading –>
“You’re gonna need a bigger boat” That was uttered by Sheriff Martin Brody in the iconic movie “Jaws.” In search of a killer shark, it was an admission that everyone had underestimated the size of their target. Similarly, at my first glance at this week’s topic, Unlimited Possibilities, I expected that I would share routine thoughts … Continue reading –>
Read 1 Corinthians 12:7 and Ephesians 4:11-16. Why does God impart spiritual gifts to each believer? What are the purposes of those gifts? Spiritual gifts serve several purposes. God gives them to nurture and strengthen His church to accomplish His ministry. They are designed to develop a unified church ready to accomplish His mission in the world. The … Continue reading –>
The title for the quarter immediately brings to mind Hymn 499 – What A Friend We Have in Jesus. The Sabbath afternoon introduction shows us that God is calling each of us: Hymn 287 – Softly and Tenderly, Hymn 361 – Hark! ‘Tis the Shepherd’s Voice I Hear and Hymn 359 – Hark! The Voice of … Continue reading –>
According to 1 Corinthians 12:11, 1 Corinthians 12:18; Ephesians 4:7-8; and James 1:17, God is the originator of all gifts, and “every perfect gift” comes from Him. Thus, we can rest assured that He will impart to us the very gifts of the Holy Spirit that are best suited to our personalities, and He will best use our skills … Continue reading –>
Have you ever considered how different from each other the disciples were? Their backgrounds, personalities, temperaments, and gifts greatly varied. But this was not a liability for the church. It was a strength. Matthew, a tax collector, was precise, exact, and accurate. In contrast, Peter often spoke quickly, and was enthusiastic and impulsive, but he … Continue reading –>
