What is the purpose of spiritual gifts, and why does the Holy Spirit give different gifts to different believers? In this episode, part of our Third Quarter 2026 study of First and Second Corinthians, we look at 1 Corinthians 12 and the question of how the gifts of the Spirit are meant to work in the church.

Continuing the theme of unity in Christ, we talk through how Paul uses the picture of the body to show that diversity is not a problem to be solved but a design to be celebrated. No one person has every gift, which keeps us humble and reminds us that we need each other. We also consider why gifts like tongues and prophecy are given for service rather than self-promotion, and we give attention to the quieter gifts that are often overlooked, such as generosity and faithful service behind the scenes.

We close with a distinction worth remembering: while spiritual gifts are distributed among different members, the fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, and self-control, is meant to grow in every believer.

For Sabbath School leaders, this episode offers a practical word of encouragement. Spend time reflecting on why you teach. Since knowledge puffs up but love builds up, aim to help your class experience the love of God, so that your group becomes a community that prays for one another and cares for one another.

This lesson is studied during the week of August 1 to August 7, 2026, and will be taught in Sabbath School on Sabbath, August 8, 2026.

Next time, join us for Lesson 7, "A Portrait of Love."

Executive Producer: Carolina Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Producer: Henrique Gomes
Editing: Henrique Gomes
Logo: Becky Carpenter