As part of our stewardship series, Be the Light, we are providing a weekly Study Companion for Small Groups and Personal Reflection to help us consider how God’s light shines through our words, choices, service, and generosity.

Download the complete Be the Light: A Study Companion for Small Groups & Personal Reflection here. Enjoy this week’s guide below:

Opening Reflection

Paul writes to a divided congregation that has confused spiritual gifts with status. His image of the church as Christ’s body offers a deeper vision of belonging. Through baptism, the Spirit joins different people into one body. Christian unity is not sameness; our differences become gifts that strengthen the church’s shared mission.

Every member matters because no one possesses everything the church needs. The people whose contributions may seem less visible are no less important to the body. Belonging also creates mutual responsibility: when one member suffers, the whole body suffers; when one rejoices, the whole body celebrates. God has given each of us gifts, experiences, resources, and opportunities to use in service to others.

Scripture Focus

1 Corinthians 12:12–27

1 Peter 4:10–11

Discussion Questions

1. When have you experienced a genuine sense of belonging in a church or community?
2. Why are we sometimes tempted to compare our gifts with the gifts of others?
3. Whose contributions are easily overlooked, and how can the church honor them more fully?
4. Where might God be inviting you to take a next step in serving or connecting at Trinity?
5. How is volunteering an expression of stewardship rather than simply filling a need?
6. What gifts does Trinity need in order to serve our community faithfully?

Stewardship Invitation

Consider the way you are most drawn to serve—through hands-on work, hospitality, listening, teaching, advocacy, organizing, giving, or prayer. Ask God to show you where that gift could make a difference.

For Further Reflection

No one possesses everything the church needs, but everyone has something to offer. Consider where your gifts could help strengthen the body of Christ and further our shared mission.

Closing Prayer

God, you have made us members of one body and given each of us gifts to share. Free us from comparison and help us recognize the value of every person. Show us where we belong and how we can serve so that your grace may be known through us. Amen.

Rev. Katie Dobbins, Preaching