Diversity According to God’s Design

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.  Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.  Romans 12:4-6a

The Scriptures describe the Church with a number of different metaphors to help us better understand who we are, corporately in Christ.  Some of those word pictures are used differently to communicate complementary ideas.  The Body of Christ is one such metaphor for the Church.  We read how the Body of Christ demonstrates a unity that is to be celebrated and honored.  However, we also see how the Body of Christ gives evidence of diversity of gifts and abilities that are brought together within the Church for God’s purposes.

In his letters to the churches at Rome and Corinth, St. Paul emphasizes the individuality of the various parts of the Body of Christ.  Not all parts of the body have the same function, but are incorporated so that God can make use of each one.  So within the Church God arranges different talents and abilities to be shared for the common good and the building up of the body.  God arranges this diversity of gifts together so that He can utilize each and every member of the body.

Our congregations are made up of members who have different gifts.  For this we rejoice and give thanks to God for the rich blessings He showers upon our congregations through musicians and financiers, carpenters and teachers, artists and bakers.  It really is a wonder to take a moment to consider all of the many gifts God has provided within the Body of Christ at your congregation.  Thanks be to God that we do have gifts that differ and yet all those are present come from the same gracious God.

Prayer – Almighty God, we give thanks to You for all of the gifts that You provide for us within the Body of Christ.  Help us to recognize these blessed gifts and give thanks for your generosity; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Fraternally in Christ,
President Lee Hagan