In this message from our We Are The Church series, Dave Carter explores 1 Corinthians 12 and the biblical vision of a church where every member ministers. Far from being a gathering of spectators, the church is a Spirit-filled community where every believer has a part to play in building up the body of Christ.

Dave begins by reminding us that whenever the church gathers, the Holy Spirit is present and active, drawing attention not to individuals but to the lordship of Jesus. Spiritual gifts are not given for personal recognition or status, but for the common good, strengthening, encouraging and serving others within the church family.

Looking at Paul’s teaching on the body of Christ, the message highlights how God has intentionally designed His church with many different gifts, personalities and functions. No member is insignificant, no gift is unnecessary, and every believer has something valuable to contribute. Whether visible or unseen, dramatic or seemingly ordinary, every gift matters in God’s purpose for His people.

The sermon also challenges common barriers to stepping out in faith, including comparing ourselves to others, undervaluing our own gifts, or dismissing the contributions of those around us. Through Paul’s teaching, we are encouraged to honour one another, celebrate one another’s successes, carry one another’s burdens, and create a culture where people can safely grow in the gifts God has given them.

Ultimately, this message points us towards the more excellent way found in 1 Corinthians 13. Spiritual gifts matter, but love must govern everything we do. As we gather together, we are called not merely to receive, but to come ready to encourage, serve and minister to one another as members of Christ’s body.

This is a vision of church where Jesus is exalted, the Holy Spirit is at work, every member participates, and love remains at the centre of it all.