In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using our spiritual gifts for the benefit of the body of Christ. He refers to the teachings of the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians chapters 12, 13, and 14. The speaker highlights the principle that although we are all different members of the body, we are united in Christ and should use our unique gifts to serve one another. He also mentions the significance of love as the greatest gift and encourages the audience to pursue spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of prophecy. The sermon concludes with the speaker sharing letters from listeners who have been impacted by the Word of God through radio broadcasts.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the resurrection of believers. He highlights that in the early church, every sermon preached was centered around the resurrection, not just on Easter. The preacher also discusses the concept of spiritual gifts, using the term "charismatone" to refer to these gifts. He emphasizes that each person has a unique gift and should use it for the glory of God. The sermon concludes with a call to understand and appreciate the gifts of the Spirit, as there is a lack of knowledge and understanding in this area within the church.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the process of building and presenting vessels for God's purpose. The sermon begins by emphasizing that God had a purpose in mind even before the creation of the world, and that purpose was to satisfy the heart of His beloved Son, Jesus. The speaker then highlights the importance of offering ourselves and everything we have to God for the building of His church, but also acknowledges how the enemy often tempts us to waste what God has given us. The sermon concludes with a call to be transformed by renewing our minds and to recognize that we are all members of one body in Christ.

In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of a young boy and a horse to illustrate the importance of teamwork and unity. He emphasizes the need to be taught by the Lord and led by the Holy Spirit in order to achieve accord. The speaker encourages the audience to leave behind old traditions and follow the word of God through the spirit of God. He also highlights the significance of maintaining a teachable spirit and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. The sermon references Matthew chapter 16 and the boldness of Peter in proclaiming the gospel despite opposition and persecution.

In this meditation by Basilia Shlink, the apostle Paul's teachings on the unity of the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12 are explored. The concept of unity is emphasized as Paul describes how Jesus is the head of the body and believers are the different members. The importance of not saying or thinking "I don't need you" about others is highlighted, as it hinders the unity of the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit is presented as the one who can unite believers with those who are difficult to get along with, if they ask for His love and guidance.

J.R. Miller emphasizes the diversity of character among Christians, noting that while all strive to imitate Christ, each individual reflects different aspects of His likeness. He explains that this variety arises from God's design, as He endows each person with unique gifts and traits, allowing for a multitude of expressions of faith. Miller illustrates that just as artists capture different views of the same landscape, Christians each highlight different features of Christ's character in their lives. He encourages believers to appreciate the unique paths and services of others, recognizing that all are valuable in their own right. Ultimately, he calls for unity in diversity, urging Christians to honor one another's distinct contributions to the body of Christ.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the vital relationship between the church and its members, illustrating that the church is the body of Christ with Jesus as its head. He explains that just as the soul animates the physical body, the Holy Spirit empowers the church, enabling it to function as intended. Each member of the church has a unique role and spiritual gifts that contribute to the overall health and mission of the body. Tozer calls for awareness of God's presence and the faithful exercise of these gifts to ensure the church thrives in a challenging world. He concludes with a prayer for the church to be a healthy body that pleases God.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of function and energy in the Church, likening it to the human body where each part has a unique role and purpose, energized by the Holy Spirit. He explains that just as the body comprises various specialized organs, the Church consists of diverse members, each contributing to the whole in a meaningful way. Sparks highlights that every believer, upon experiencing new life in Christ, is called to express this life through their unique gifts and functions. He warns against the confusion that arises when members attempt to fulfill roles they were not designed for, stressing the importance of divine order in the Body of Christ. Ultimately, the Church is a living organism, where the life of Christ flows through each member, enabling them to work together harmoniously.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of 'Functional Union' within the Body of Christ, illustrating how each member plays a vital role in expressing the personality of Christ. He explains that the Church exists not for self-expression but to manifest Christ's presence and personality, highlighting the importance of interrelatedness, interdependence, and mutual support among believers. Sparks warns against both the exaggeration and neglect of the Body, urging Christians to recognize their responsibility in functioning as part of this living organism. He concludes that Christ's headship is essential for the Body to operate effectively, and that spiritual growth is contingent upon maintaining a strong connection with one another and with Christ. The sermon calls for believers to actively engage in their roles within the Body to fully express Christ's life and purpose.

Watchman Nee emphasizes the concept of unity in the Body of Christ, explaining that while individual experiences of faith are important, they must be understood within the context of the collective body of believers. He warns against oversimplifying salvation and stresses the necessity of recognizing the various phases of Christian experience, including revelation, crisis, and continuous process. Nee highlights that the work of Christ on the Cross encompasses both remedial and positive aspects, ultimately leading to the creation of a glorious Church that reflects God's eternal purpose. He calls for believers to present themselves as one living sacrifice, acknowledging their interdependence within the Body of Christ, which is essential for fulfilling God's purpose. The sermon concludes with the assurance that through Christ, the Church is empowered to overcome the challenges posed by sin and the enemy.

Olin Alfred Curtis preaches about the social nature of man, emphasizing the natural principle of attraction that leads to relationships and the importance of fraternity as a Christian idea. He highlights the individuality emphasized by company, where each person contributes to the racial brotherhood of moral persons, and the significance of personal loneliness and the need for social fellowship. Curtis discusses the Christian method of social life, the racial nexus through the human body, and the Christian aim to save individuals in a way that leads to a racial brotherhood of moral persons.

Paris Reidhead preaches on the story of Ebenezer from 1 Samuel 4, highlighting the importance of recognizing God's help in both defeat and victory. He emphasizes the need for true brokenness, purification, and meeting God's conditions for triumph. Reidhead shares the inspiring story of Dr. A.B. Simpson's radical obedience to God's vision, leaving a prestigious church to establish a mission ministry in New York, focusing on being a blessing to the community and the entire body of Christ. He challenges the congregation to rededicate themselves to the original genius of the Christian Alliance, emphasizing the significance of small group meetings for study, prayer, and fellowship as a means of blessing and nurturing believers.

John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation within the Church, highlighting the need for mutual respect and consideration among all members, regardless of status or position. He encourages the laity to actively participate in decision-making processes, illustrating how even the Apostles involved the people in their choices. Chrysostom stresses the significance of working together as one body, sharing responsibilities, and valuing diverse perspectives for the growth and well-being of the Church. He urges humility, openness to counsel from others, and a collective effort to seek what is best for the community, ultimately aiming for a harmonious and fruitful Church life.

John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of understanding spiritual gifts and the manifestation of the Spirit, emphasizing the diversity of gifts given by the same Spirit for the benefit of all believers. He addresses the Corinthians' struggles with envy and division due to the varying gifts, highlighting the need for humility and gratitude in receiving God's gifts. Chrysostom explains the difference between soothsaying and prophecy, urging believers to discern the spirits and seek the true manifestation of the Spirit. He encourages contentment with the gifts received, reminding them that all gifts come from the same source and are given according to God's will for the profit of all.

Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of different temperaments and gifts within the Body of Christ, highlighting how each person's unique ministry and emphasis can contribute to presenting a balanced and accurate picture of Christ to the world. He stresses the need for mutual complementarity among believers with varying viewpoints, temperaments, and intellectual capacities, as they work together to advance the gospel. Poonen encourages acceptance of diversity and individuality within the Body, focusing instead on how strengths can support weaknesses and lead to deeper fellowship and spiritual growth.

Ignatius of Antioch urges the Church at Antioch to elect a bishop to represent them and bring peace to the Church. He emphasizes the importance of unity and glorifying God through coming together. Ignatius encourages them to be zealous in their ministry, assuring them that they will receive glory in Christ for their efforts. He reminds them that other Churches have also sent leaders to support one another, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of Christ.

Clement of Rome urges believers to act as soldiers of Christ, emphasizing the importance of obedience, order, and submissiveness to God's commandments. He illustrates the unity and interdependence within the body of Christ, highlighting how each member, regardless of rank, plays a crucial role in the functioning of the whole body. Just as the head needs the feet and vice versa, every believer is essential for the well-being of the Church, working together harmoniously under God's rule for the preservation of the body of Christ.

Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of actively participating in a local church as a fundamental aspect of being a true born-again believer. He challenges the common notion that attending church is optional for Christians, highlighting that being part of the 'Universal Church' or sporadically attending services does not fulfill the biblical mandate of being part of a local body of believers. Bosch underscores the significance of believers functioning within the context of a church body to reach their full potential and receive spiritual nourishment, drawing parallels to the interconnectedness of body parts in the human anatomy.

Dick Sipley emphasizes the importance of the church functioning as one big family, working together in unity through the Spirit of God. He reflects on the negative impact of carrying past traditions and attitudes into ministry, hindering spiritual growth. Sipley highlights the necessity of transparent honesty for fellowship, stressing the need to break down walls and religious exteriors to build genuine relationships. Additionally, he underscores the significance of availability over ability, addressing issues of envy and pride among believers and promoting lay ministry for true church growth.

Thomas Bradbury preaches on the perfect oneness of the Church with Jehovah, emphasizing the deep sense of identity and humility in apostolic injunctions. He highlights the need for believers to walk worthy of their calling, showing lowliness, meekness, and forbearance in love. The sermon delves into the 'Family Epistle' of Ephesians, revealing the eternal union of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit with the elect children. It explores the unique revelation of a present Christ throughout the epistle, emphasizing the continuous communion and union between Christ and His Church.

Robert B. Thompson preaches about the importance of Christ, the Servant of the Lord, who will bring justice to the nations at His return. The sermon emphasizes that all members of the Body of Christ are called to participate in bringing justice to the world. It highlights the urgency for Christians to discover and utilize their spiritual gifts to build up the Body of Christ and prepare for the coming of Jesus. The sermon also stresses the need for believers to focus on unity of faith, deepening knowledge of Christ, developing His moral image, and finding rest in God.

Zac Poonen preaches on the significance of fellowship in the new covenant, emphasizing that it mirrors the intimate fellowship between Jesus and the Father. He highlights that under the old covenant, despite great holiness, people could not experience true fellowship. The new covenant brings believers into inward sanctification, leading to genuine fellowship with one another, as seen in the unity and partnership among the apostles in the early church.

Gareth Evans preaches on the church as 'the BODY of Christ', emphasizing the importance of unity, interdependence, and diversity within the body. He highlights how the church, as a living organism indwelt by the same Spirit, should function together to fulfill Christ's will and grow in love. Evans stresses the priority of unity in Jesus' high priestly prayer and its significance for evangelism and the church's witness, despite Satan's attempts to disrupt it. He also delves into the charismata, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to embrace and operate in these gifts for the common good and the edification of the body of Christ.

F.W. Grant emphasizes the importance of the Bible Reading meeting as a crucial test of the assembly's state, where knowledge is shared, tested, and used for mutual edification. He laments the decline in interest for these meetings, attributing it to a loss of enthusiasm for truth and a diminished consciousness of the Spirit's work in individuals. Grant stresses that God's Word is meant for all His people, not to be restricted to a select few, and that teachers should empower others to seek and find spiritual knowledge independently.

Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the uniqueness of individuals in terms of personality, individuality, oddities, and temperamental differences, emphasizing that God has created each person distinctively. He explores how holiness does not eradicate natural dispositions but sanctifies them for God's use, highlighting the importance of embracing one's individuality for effective service. Baldwin also addresses the impact of education, environment, and judgment on holiness, urging believers to shine wherever they are placed and to refrain from passing harsh judgment on others.