A PLACE TO BELONG | NOVEMBER 16, 2025

Gifted To Serve – Chip Henderson

Sermon Highlights

Key Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:1-22

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul reminds believers that every follower of Jesus has been gifted by the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who leads us to confess that “Jesus Christ is Lord” also gives each of us spiritual gifts the moment we trust in Christ. These gifts aren’t something we choose or can learn. They’re given by the Spirit for a purpose: to serve others and glorify God.

You are gifted by God to serve. The question is do you know your gift? And, do you have a plan for using it?

INTRO

Icebreaker
Think of a time someone’s unique gift blessed you. What was the gift, and how did it help?

Transition to Discussion
The Holy Spirit gives every believer spiritual gifts the moment we trust Christ. These gifts aren’t chosen or learned. They’re given by God to build up the church and bring Him glory. As we look at 1 Corinthians 12, we’ll talk about what these gifts are, who gives them, and how we’re meant to use them.

GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Read 1 Corinthians 12:1–11 together.

  • Paul says the Holy Spirit is the one who helps us declare that “Jesus is Lord.” Why do you think it’s important to start a conversation about spiritual gifts by first remembering who gives them and what they point back to?

  • What’s the difference between the gift of the Spirit, the fruit of the Spirit, and a spiritual gift? Why is it important to understand those differences?

  • Scripture teaches that every believer receives a spiritual gift. Do you truly believe that includes you? Why do you think some people struggle to believe they’re gifted by God?

  • Verse 7 says the gifts are given “for the common good.” How does that truth shape the way you think about your own gifts and how you use them?

  • Why do you think God designed it so that no one person has all the gifts? What does that tell us about our need for one another?

  • Have you ever been tempted to compare your gifts to someone else’s? Or to feel like yours aren’t as important? How can this passage reframe that mindset?

  • Paul warns that our motives can get mixed when it comes to spiritual gifts. What are some ways pride can sneak in when we serve, and how can we guard against it?

  • Chip asked, “Do you know your gift, and are you using it?” What’s one step you can take this week to begin serving or using your gift to build up others?

NEXT STEP AND PRAYER

God has gifted you through His Spirit not just to believe, but to belong and to build. When each of us uses our gifts as God designed, the body of Christ becomes stronger and the world sees a clearer picture of Jesus.

Take a few moments to be still and ask:

  • What gift has God given me, and how am I using it to serve others?

  • Is there a place or person where He’s inviting me to step in and serve this week?

Maybe it’s encouraging someone who’s struggling, joining a team, mentoring a younger believer, or simply offering your time. Whatever it is, take a step of faith and trust that God’s Spirit will empower you.

Group Prayer Guide

  • Thank God for the Holy Spirit—our helper, guide, and giver of every good gift.

  • Praise Him for the variety of gifts in the church and the way they work together.

  • Ask for humility and wisdom to use your gifts for His glory, not your own.

  • Pray for courage to step out and serve where He’s calling you.

  • Thank God that in His family, everyone has a place to belong and a role to play.

Amen.