Using Your Spiritual Gift(s) to Build The Church; MaintainingWatchfulness
ECWA Theme for 2026
“Keep your lamps burning…”
(Luke 12: 35, NIV)
Introduction
1 Peter 4: 7-11, instructs Christians to live with urgency and love deeply, showing hospitality using their spiritual gifts to serve others in anticipation of Christ’s imminent return to confirm proper attitude and what we should be doing as pilgrims on the way home to heaven. This study will help us to reflect on why Peter and Paul share the same perspective with Luke regarding the need for believers to remain ready and watchful in view of Christ return and the sobering reality of divine judgement (Lk. 12:35-37; 2 Tim. 4: 1- 5; 1 Pet. 4: 3-11; Rm. 12: 1 - 3).
Regarding the theme of “Keeping your lambs burning” Peter and Peter write to leave no doubt about who we are and what we are to focus on doing so we don’t get wrapped up in confusion concerning God’s priorities for our lives because challenges often cause feelings of frustration, bitterness, and even anger and put us at risk of neglecting our primary purposes in life. They both write to remind and warn us concerning the imminent return of Christ and chose the example of the way a runner stretches and strains for the finish line.
Since Peter and Paul wrote to issue a call to action on the body of Christ to use our resources, time, talents and spiritual gifts given to us by the Holy Spirit to serve in love and in ways that benefits the body of Christ in anticipation of Christ return, how does these encourage you – besides, do you have good understanding of what to be doing so you can keep your lambs burning or are you confuse or not yet accepted the truth that the coming of Christ would occur someday and we shall altogether give account of our lives to God
This Bible study is aimed to help us fulfill our duties so that Christ’s church could stand together participating in active spiritual services and battle ready for the eventual return of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.
Questions
1. 1 Peter 4: 7 opens with the word, “But/Now” to serve as bridge connecting the sobering reality of divine judgement previously mentioned in verses 5-6. Summarize what these passages say within the context of judgment 2Corinthians 5: 6 - 10; 1 Corinthians 3: 11 - 15 and Romans 14: 10 – 12.
A. Carefully list out the spiritual gifts found in these passages: Ephesians 4: 11 -13; Romans. 12: 6 – 8; 1 Peter 4: 7 - 11 and 1 Corinthians 12: 7 - 11. What’s the difference between spiritual gift and talent
B. Peter wrote on love and spiritual gifts to admonishing believers. Reflecting on 1Peter 4: 9 – 11, What is worth comparing in practical application with the churches in Ephesus and Thyatira according to Rev. 2: 1 - 3; 18 - 19.
C. Read about Jesus returning to establish justice and rectify the wrongs of the world in Matt. 16: 27, Acts 17: 3; 2 Thess. 1: 6-10. Spot as you read how to live so we don’t get wrapped up in the world as God’s chosen in Col. 3:1-10.
2. Paul shows the source of spiritual gifts and provides a broader context of gifts in Ephesians 4: 4 - 6; 11 - 16. Trace the source and the purpose of the gifts. Discuss how he wrote to encouraged and emphasize active participation.
A. Explain how Paul described Christian maturity and Spiritual Infancy. What is the profound danger of being a spiritual infant and when can we be sure God receives glory from how we use our gifts.
B. An action recorded in Acts 13: 4-13 and 2 Timothy 4: 9-11 can be regarded as useful for our study. Dis cuss what happened and how the situation was handled. On a personal thought, reflect with example when you or a believer you know is seen building up someone in love
3. Paul urges believers to walk worthy of their calling in Ephe. 4: 1- 3. Summarize what you feel called to do and explain how the virtues of humility, gentleness and patience would help you to love others, maintain and promote unity in the church
A. Romans 12: 1-2 marks a shift from theological doctrine to practical Christian living. In your view, what does it mean to offer our body as a living sacrifice and discuss ways that Christians are tempted to conform to the world’s pattern.
B. Paul in Romans 12: 3 warned believers to avoid prideful self-exaltation urging them to evaluate themselves with sober judgement. Trace the greater context to leave no one in doubt looking at verses 4 - 8, and 1 Cor.12: 4 -10
4. Speak the truth in love originates from Ephe. 4:15. Also, key aspects of 1 Pet. 4:8-10 speaks about loving others and practicing hospitality. Read Matt. 15: 32 and MK. 8: 1-3 and highlight what Peter and Paul wanted to ensure about truth and love
A. Luke 19: 11-27, the parable of the Ten Minas emphasizes personal watchfulness, accountability, and faithfulness. On what basis were other servants rewarded and the other servant warned and punished
B. Reflecting on the implication of the servant resisting Christ’s authority and in view of Ephe 4: 11 - 16, are there areas in your life where you are acting like the third servant. Discuss
C. How does the thought of accountability and stewardship make you feel towards Spiritual infants concerning what you have learned, known and received from God. List out and mention what you planned on doing moving
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