Nehemiah 3, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 & Romans 12:3-8
Nehemiah 3 records the names of more than 50 people who repaired the city gates. Scripture is living and active-even the chapters of genealogies and detailed lists. Nehemiah 3 presents the idea that God uses a variety of people with different skills and gifts to participate in the work of building, for the common good. This theme runs throughout the Bible. Unlike previous sessions, we will not spend much time in the text of Nehemiah today. We will instead study the theme found in Nehemiah in other Scripture passages.
- To begin with, what are some things that cause your heart to leap inside of you? Said another way, when do you feel most alive?
- Are there any unique giftings, skills, or abilities God has given you? What are they? How have you historically used these gifts?
- Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. According to this passage, why does God give gifts to His people (1 Corinthians 12:7)? Why do you think He gives different kinds of gifts? Discuss.
- Read Romans 12:3-8. In your own words, discuss the metaphor of the "body" that Paul lays out in this text. Because there are different needs in the church, different gifts are required. Having considered some of God's purposes for our gifts, passions, and resources, where might God be calling you in the church specifically? Reflect upon that, and spend some time in prayer for one another. Ask God to use you powerfully in specific ways to build up the church for the common good.
