Pastor Allen emphasized the importance of understanding the Holy Spirit, particularly the gifts He gives, during a gathering that combined fellowship and spiritual teaching. He introduced the focus of the evening on the gift of love, stating that while spiritual gifts like prophecy and miracles are valuable, they mean nothing without love at their core. With a heartfelt prayer, he invited the presence of the Lord to guide their discussion and opened the evening with a reading from 1 Corinthians chapter 12.

As he delved deeper into 1 Corinthians 12, Pastor Allen clarified that every believer is part of the body of Christ, with each member serving a unique function. Each person in the church, though different, is necessary and valuable. He highlighted the series of spiritual gifts listed in Paul’s letter, noting that God appoints various roles within the church, just as leaders are appointed in other systems. This appointment speaks to both position and function in the body of believers, underlining that everyone’s role is significant.

Pastor Allen distinguished between being appointed and being anointed. He explained that while appointment refers to a specific role within the church, anointing relates to empowerment by the Holy Spirit to fulfill one’s ministry. He described both motivational and manifestational gifts, emphasizing how the Holy Spirit equips each believer. His clarification that these gifts are not just personal but for building up the church community served to remind believers of their responsibility to serve and edify each other.

The message shifted to Paul’s exhortation to earnestly desire the best gifts, emphasizing that not all gifts have equal importance. Pastor Allen encouraged everyone to seek gifts that edify the body of Christ rather than just personal gratification. He used an illustration of a church event to demonstrate how helping each other discover their talents is a higher calling. Ultimately, he pointed out that while personal gifts are important, nurturing love among believers is of utmost importance.

In finishing his teaching, Pastor Allen made a powerful case for love being the most excellent way. He quoted 1 Corinthians 13, illustrating that without love, even great spiritual gifts mean nothing. The essence of love defined in Paul’s letter—patience, kindness, and concern for others—was presented as the barometer for true Christian living. He urged everyone to not only desire spiritual gifts but to prioritize love in interactions and relationships, echoing that loving actions reflect genuine faith in Christ.

This sermon was presented by Pastor Allen Victor at Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville.

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