4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
The world seeks the seeming miracle of unity in diversity. It seeks equality as well. Both seem far out of reach. That is until you read about how God the Holy Spirit distributes spiritual gifts. That is true unity in diversity. Paul described the diversity of the members of the church and their different roles and skills. Then he said the word “same” 6 times to describe the Lord and his treatment of these various souls. They all received gifts for a purpose, the common good of the kingdom of God. This is covered in greater detail in the remaining verses.
Praise God for the diversity of his people! Praise the Lord for his unchanging steadfast love! It is these two things that make the church so interesting and attractive. There is a gift for everyone. There is a role for everyone. There is an empowerment for everyone that the world can only dream of providing for its citizens. The citizens of the kingdom of God enjoy the unity and diversity that is the envy of the world. May your church model it for the world by empowering all of its members.
Dear Lord, thank you for the unity and diversity of your church. Help each member seize the empowerment given us by the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church