First Corinthians 12. One of the most difficult things for us to grasp as modern, western Christians is God’s desire for us to be part of his people, part of the Church. This is difficult for us, because in the modern West we are intensely individualistic.

In the NT, the Corinthians were not much different. As one scholar puts it, they view themselves as “spiritual soloists” attempting to play their own concert.[1] This mindset is especially evident when they come together for worship. We, too, may conceive of our Christian life in individual terms. We may think that church attendance and church involvement personal matters—it’s about my desires, preferences; it exists to serve me. Many times, we come to observe an event rather than to participate in a community.

But God does not redeem people and pour his Spirit into them for their benefit alone. He redeems people to be part of a community for his glory. He empowers people with his Spirit to serve that community. This is what the Spirit does then. Through the gospel, he calls us into a  community of believers and empowers us for service. The work of the  Spirit is not for self-benefit but for the benefit of Christ’s church. Sermon for August 2, 2020.

For a manuscript and discussion guide visit revseanmcguire.com