10.20.24 WHY TRINITY: “I Am Here to Do My Part”
Ephesians 4:7-12, 15-16, 1 Corinthians 12:4-12, 24-26
Dear Trinity Family & Friends,
This Sunday, we continue our “Why Trinity” Stewardship series with a sermon titled “I Am Here to Do My Part,” grounded in Ephesians 4:7-12, 15-16 (CEB) and 1 Corinthians 12:4-12, 24b-26 (CEB). Both of these passages compare the church to a human body—a unified whole made up of many different parts, each with its own purpose. In this analogy, every believer is seen as an essential piece, contributing their God-given gifts to the mission and ministry of the church.
Through this message, we’ll reflect on how each of us is uniquely equipped by God to support the church’s growth and unity. We’ll explore the significance of using our gifts to strengthen the body of Christ and emphasize that every member plays a crucial role in nurturing our faith community.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing our gifts to others, believing that if our contributions aren’t as visible or far-reaching, they don’t matter. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Every part, no matter how small it may seem, is vital to the body of Christ. Your role in this mission is needed and deeply valued.
As we prepare for this week’s sermon, I invite you to reflect on these questions:
- Reflecting on your “part” at work, in a sports team, a musical group, or another organization, do you feel confident in the abilities you bring to fulfill your specific responsibilities? Why or why not?
- Do you feel more or less certain about the “part” God has gifted you for at Trinity and within the body of Christ? What contributes to your level of confidence?
- It's common to feel like our part in the body of Christ is less significant if it's not as visible as that of a preacher, teacher, or musician. How does Paul's use of body imagery in 1 Corinthians help you better appreciate and value the variety of gifts needed in the body of Christ, including your own?
- What do you see as your role at Trinity and within the body of Christ? Are you fulfilling it to the best of your ability for God's glory? Why or why not?
As we prepare to dive deeper into these scriptures and reflect on our unique roles in the body of Christ, let’s remember that every contribution—no matter how visible or behind the scenes—carries immense value. God has gifted each of us with abilities meant to build up and strengthen our community. Take time this week to consider how you can use your gifts to serve more fully, not out of comparison, but out of a deep understanding of the vital role you play in God’s mission. Together, we can embrace our parts and work toward the unity and growth of the church, knowing that each of us is indispensable to the body of Christ.
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Carrie