The Spirit & the Church

Originally preached May 24, 2026.

scripture

1 Corinthians 12:1–13

series

Summer Sessions

summary

In this Pentecost Sunday message from 1 Corinthians 12:1–13, the church is reminded that the Holy Spirit leads and shapes the people of God by directing them to affirm Christ, serve one another, and live in unity. Paul teaches that spiritual gifts are not about personal status or spectacle, but are gracious empowerments from the Triune God given “for the common good,” so that every believer can participate in the life and ministry of the church. Like a construction site, the Spirit acts like a foreman coordinating diverse people and gifts into one living community, where unity is maintained not through sameness but through shared allegiance to Jesus, sacrificial service, and dependence on the Spirit’s presence and power.

The Spirit & the Church (1 Corinthians 12:1-14)

Aaron Halstead

for reflection:

1. In what ways is the Holy Spirit currently leading you to openly affirm Jesus as Lord in your everyday life, relationships, or decisions?

2. What gifts, abilities, or opportunities for service has God given you, and might you use them more intentionally for the “common good” of the church rather than yourself?

3. The sermon describes the church as a messy but Spirit-led construction site. How can you contribute to the unity of the church even when community feels difficult, imperfect, or frustrating?