The Gifts Continue for the Common Good

Read the text

1 Corinthians 12

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Romans 12:3–8
• Ephesians 4:7–16
• 1 Peter 4:7–11

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Christ gives varied gifts through the Spirit so the whole body matures in love.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Make a positive continuationist case while acknowledging abuses honestly.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Identify where gift, character, skill, and office overlap—and where they do not.