In the New Testament, Paul outlines three different analogies of the church. The Building (Eph 2:21-22), The Bride (Eph 5:22-33), (Eph 5:30-33 among other places) and the "Body."

The "Body" is used in three ways in the New Testament.

A. A local group/assembly of believers

B. A geographical region group of believers

C. The universal collection of all believers

The illustration of the body fits perfectly for all concerned. We however, are looking at this through the first usage, the local church.

*An important premise of the local church is the fact, that God has called each one of us to a particular church. Which means, God placed you where you are, under this pastoral authority, with this vision, these people, these facilities, this budget, etc...all of it’s strengths and weaknesses.

* Since God called each of us to this particular body. We are not whole without one another, and if we do not function accordingly, we retard the body or make it sick.

I Corinthians 12:4-7 "There are diversities of gifts (allotments or various kinds), but the same Spirit. There are diversities of ministries, (service, or administrations), but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, (operations, workings, effects), but the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:"

In this passage of Scripture there is a theme:

There is one Spirit (Holy Spirit)

There is one LORD (Jesus/Son)

There is one God (Father)

There is one Body (Church)

There is one Purpose (Edification)

According to the Scriptures:

I. Every Believer is gifted Spiritually.

I Corinthians 12:11 The Holy Spirit "distributes to each one as He wills"

Everyone is gifted Spiritually, by the Holy Spirit this is what we call "spiritual gifts" They are not a talent they are supernaturally given abilities.

2 lists in Scripture: I Cor 12:4-30 & Rom 12:6-8.

No one can say, I don’t have at least one. In fact all most likely possess them all. For He has given us everything we need pertaining to life and godliness. However, we are strong, and capable in particular ones.

II. Every Believer has a Divine Place and Purpose in the Body of Christ

vs 7 "The manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." (THAT’S YOUR PURPOSE), vs 18 " God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased." (THAT’S YOUR PLACE). To be a benefit to each and every person. When you are absent, or when you choose not to fill your spot you weaken the body.

III. Each Believer Must serve God in the place that He put them.

How should we serve?

Boldly, because we know God works all things together.

Patiently, because know God works all things together in His time.

Faithfully, because we know we have the victory through Christ.

Our job as belivers is to:

Find out what God has gifted us with.

Find out where He wants us to use it.

Stir up the gift within you and excercise and practice it.

Remain Faithful in the Place and Purpose He has called us to.

Every member of the body is important! Every member of the body has a function! Every member of the body is needed for the body to function at an optimum level. "For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, that God has before ordained that we should walk in them." Eph 2:10

You are important, you are gifted, you are empowered! Find your place and do your thing!